𝐍𝐃𝐃𝐂 𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬, 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬

By George OPARA

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has unveiled a digitized procurement framework designed to simplify bidding process, access and opportunities for contractors and other stakeholders.

It also said it would expanded its efforts to establish transparency and efficiency in its operations.

The commission said this at a sensitisation programme held in Yenagoa, on Wednesday, saying that the embarked reform would enhance processes, eliminate bottlenecks and create a more competitive environment for contractors operating in the Niger Delta region.

Director of Procurement at the Commission, Chuks Osuji who explained this added that the initiative was aimed at equipping contractors, consultants, vendors and civil society groups with the knowledge required to navigate the new electronic procurement system.

He maintained that the transition from manual to digital processes would significantly reduce delays and administrative hurdles, enabling contractors to submit bids remotely and monitor procurement activities in real time.

In his words, “This reform is about making the system work better for everyone, particularly contractors, who can now participate from anywhere without the constraints associated with manual processes,” he said, adding that the platform would ensure value for money while promoting fairness and accountability.”

The director emphasized Osuji that the digitisation would curb entrenched challenges such as nepotism, bureaucracy and irregularities, thereby opening up the space for qualified contractors to compete on merit.

Also, Osuji commended the Managing Director of the Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, for driving reforms that reposition the agency towards global best practices.

In his contribution, the facilitator and Head of Procurement at Federal University Otuoke, Comfort Taavaan-Ogolo, said the digital transition would enhance transparency and expand access to procurement opportunities.

She added, “Contractors stand to benefit from a level playing field, improved access to information and a more predictable procurement cycle, which collectively reduce uncertainty and cost of participation.

“Features such as online bid submission, real-time tracking and improved data management would not only boost efficiency but also strengthen trust between the Commission and its stakeholders”.

As part of the highlights participants at the programme were taken through practical demonstrations of the e-procurement platform, with emphasis on how contractors can leverage the system to improve their chances of securing projects.

Besides, stakeholders noted that the initiative signalled a shift to a more inclusive and technology-driven procurement system that prioritises integrity, competitiveness and ease of doing business