From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
A Member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Abdullahi Hashim, has described President Bola Tinubu’s newly approved Renewed Hope Nigeria-First Procurement Policy as a ‘game-changing’ initiative that will drive support local industries and deepen the country’s technical capacity.
In a statement made on Tuesday, Hashim, who is also a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and an alumnus of Harvard University, stated that the policy has the potential to spark job creation, stimulate innovation, and promote local content in public procurement.
“I commend Mr. President for implementing the Renewed Hope-Nigeria First Procurement Policy, a palpable initiative that will shape our nation’s economic trajectory. By prioritising locally-made products in government procurement, you are fostering a culture of self-reliance, boosting internal productivity, and promoting economic growth,” he said.
The policy, which was recently confirmed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, directs all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise the use of locally-produced goods and services in their procurement processes. Only in cases where no viable local option is available can a waiver for foreign alternatives be sought from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
Hashim noted that the policy would also create opportunities for entrepreneurs and manufacturers across various sectors.
“This policy will have far-reaching impact on the economic empowerment, which means the President is injecting lives into our economy, creating jobs, and stimulating innovation,” he said.
He further highlighted the anticipated ripple effects on the business environment: “This policy will help boost Business Confidence. This will encourage investments in local products and will enhance entrepreneurship confidence amongst the business players because it will help us in reclaiming our economic sovereignty and empowering our future sustenance.”
He also praised the policy’s alignment with global development goals: “Additionally, the FPP will give tremendous aid to Human Liberation, by breaking free from the foreign importation of certain goods, we build liberation and promote self determination.”
“Mr. President efforts on this policy will guarantee a sustainable development in our dealings, because, the policy aligns with global best practices, promoting sustainable development, and reducing our carbon footprint.”
Hashim called on all stakeholders, particularly within the private sector and public institutions, to embrace and fully implement the policy for the greater good of Nigeria’s economy.
“We celebrate your commitment to nation-building and look forward to the transformative impact of this policy on our economy and society,” he added.