Interior Minister reaffirms commitment to national security
…as BPP saves ₦103bn in five weeks, eyes full digital procurement
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has restated the ministry’s dedication to strengthening internal security and ensuring good governance through strategic collaboration with relevant agencies.
Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, and his team, the Minister emphasized the ministry’s unwavering resolve to safeguard national security while upholding efficiency and accountability in governance.
“The ministry is poised to drive meaningful change, ensuring efficiency and accountability across all its agencies,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated.
He underscored the critical role of the BPP in preventing corruption in procurement processes, describing the Bureau as the conscience of the government.
The Minister also stressed that agencies under the Interior Ministry oversee and protect key national assets while their officers make significant sacrifices to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further announced that the ministry launched a contactless passport renewal system in Europe on February 7, 2025, a move aimed at eliminating human interference and reducing corrupt practices in the system.
Commending the Director General of BPP for his achievements since assuming office, the Minister emphasized the importance of self-appraisal in public service.
He urged the Bureau to embrace technology for seamless procurement processes, ensuring efficiency, proper evaluation, and accountability.
While acknowledging that no system is completely flawless, Dr. Tunji-Ojo lauded the Bureau’s progress and responsiveness to urgent issues, noting that its commitment to upholding procurement standards has not compromised efficiency.
He emphasized the critical role of the BPP as the evaluator and monitor of public agencies, warning that if it is perceived as a hindrance rather than a catalyst for performance, its mandate could be undermined.
READ ALSO: Nigeria’s 49 Trillion naira budget undergoes adjustments for increased revenue
The Minister also applauded the Bureau’s recent achievements, including a target turnaround time of 20 days for procurement processes, and encouraged it to intensify its focus on e-procurement to enhance accountability and reduce corruption.
Reaffirming the collaborative spirit necessary for nation-building, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that “building a nation is a joint task” and pledged the Ministry of Interior’s commitment to partnering with the BPP to achieve this goal.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership and his trust in young Nigerians to deliver on his mandate.
Earlier, the Director General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to supporting national security efforts, emphasizing the need for emergency attention to the security sector in light of prevailing challenges.
Dr. Adedokun revealed that the Bureau has significantly reduced its procurement turnaround time to 20 days and is working tirelessly to improve its operations through accountability, transparency, and a transition to full digital procurement.
He disclosed that in just five weeks, the BPP has saved the Nigerian government ₦103 billion and $24 million through price intelligence and due diligence efforts.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Dr. Adedokun stressed the need for increased women’s participation in procurement, noting their potential to save money and ensure quality service delivery.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to lead the Bureau, pledging to uphold the trust placed in him.
Adedokun also called on Nigerians to provide feedback on areas where the BPP can improve, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in enhancing governance.
