World Bank Delegation Tours Lagos State's Innovative e-Procurement System
A high-level three-member delegation from the World Bank has just concluded an insightful five-day visit to the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (LASPPA), focusing on evaluating the state’s electronic procurement system. This visit underscores Lagos’s commitment to innovative governance and modern public service delivery.
During the visit, Akin Onimole, a Procurement Specialist and the leader of the delegation, reflected on the progress made since the regional manager’s prior engagement with LASPPA last year. He highlighted the significant strides the agency has taken in digitalizing its procurement processes. This assessment is not just a formality; it’s a collaborative step towards enhancing transparency and efficiency in public procurement—a crucial aspect for any growing economy.
Onimole, who has previously served as the General Manager of LASPPA, expressed his excitement regarding the practical demonstrations of the electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system conducted by agency officials. “The dedication to enhancing procurement practices is evident,” he said, noting that this digital leap positions Lagos as a leading example for others across Nigeria.
Adding to the excitement was Richard Migambi, a consultant with the World Bank based in Rwanda, who shared that their visit aimed to gauge the operational status of the e-GP system within Lagos State. The intent is clear: to provide the necessary support and guidance to help the agency refine its systems further, potentially setting a benchmark for e-procurement processes across the nation.
Fatai Onafowote, the Director-General of LASPPA, warmly welcomed the support from the World Bank, expressing his gratitude for the collaborative efforts. He provided an overview of the agency’s digitalization journey, which began in 2018. Astonishingly, 159 ministries, departments, and agencies are now integrated into the e-GP platform—showcasing the breadth of this initiative. Currently, over 3,700 contractors are registered, demonstrating an expansive network of potential service providers leveraging this modern approach.
In each of the three ministries assessed, the World Bank team was treated to live demonstrations of the system, illustrating its user-friendly interface and efficiency. This practical engagement allowed the attendees to witness firsthand how electronic procurement streamlines processes and fosters transparency.
As the digital age continues to reshape governance, Lagos State’s proactive approach to public procurement not only promises improved services but also reinforces the state’s status as a vanguard of change in Nigeria’s public sector. The emphasis on e-Government solutions indicates a future where efficiency and accountability can flourish.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story and others that explore groundbreaking innovations in governance across Africa!
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