The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced a sensitisation programme for stakeholders on policy reforms and the digitisation of its procurement system, as part of efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in its operations.
According to a statement issued by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs of the commission noted that the programme, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, brought together key stakeholders including government officials, procurement officers, consultants, contractors, private sector vendors, and civil society organisations.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Procurement at NDDC, Dr Chuks Osuji, said the initiative was designed to educate participants on recent policy reforms and the Commission’s transition to a fully digitised procurement framework.
According to him, the move forms part of broader efforts to modernise procurement processes, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure value for money in project execution. He noted that the shift from manual to digital systems would eliminate common challenges such as bureaucratic bottlenecks, nepotism, and irregularities.
Osuji also commended the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for driving reforms aimed at repositioning the Commission and improving service delivery across the Niger Delta region.
Photo Caption:The NDDC Director Procurement, Dr Chucks Osuji (2nd right), in a handshake with the Resource Person, Mrs Comfort Taavaan-Ogolo, during the Policy Reform and Digitisation of the NDDC Procurement System (Stakeholder Sensitisation & Training workshop) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. With them are the NDDC Bayelsa State office, Deputy Director, Engr Anthony Oyabebefa (left); the Consultant, Mrs Onyeka Obioha(right)
He emphasised that the new system would allow contractors and consultants to participate in bidding processes remotely, thereby improving accessibility and efficiency. He urged stakeholders to take advantage of the training to fully understand and adapt to the new digital procurement platform.
Also speaking, the facilitator and Head of Procurement at the Federal University Otuoke, Mrs Comfort Taavaan-Ogolo, said the reform aligns the Commission’s procurement processes with global best practices.
She explained that the digitisation initiative would address longstanding challenges such as delays, lack of transparency, and limited access to information, while promoting competitiveness and ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders.
Participants at the programme were introduced to key features of the electronic procurement platform, including online bid submission, real-time tracking of procurement activities, and enhanced data management systems.
The sensitisation exercise is part of NDDC’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening institutional integrity, improving service delivery, and building public trust in its operations.
