CSOs Seek Accountability In Government Procurement Process

A civil society organisation (CSO) Accountability Lab, in partnership with the Centre for International Private Enterprise, have moved to ensure ethical business practices and fairness in government contracts to ensure accountability in procurement process.

“Our target is businesses that bid for government contracts. We want to ensure accountability in the procurement process,” country director of Accountability Lab, Friday Odeh.

Odeh who stated this at a one-day media roundtable on Ethics First Campaign yesterday in Abuja disclosed that government procurement has historically been a hotspot for corruption in Nigeria.

He said their shared mission is to support businesses in embracing ethical practices and upholding accountability, fairness, and equity in government procurement processes.

While not yet a standard adopted by the government, Odeh and his team are advocating for the adoption of the “Ethics First Campaign” in all government contracts.

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He said this campaign would require government contractors and vendors to commit to ethical business practices as a prerequisite for engagement.

“Abandoned projects, financial losses, and collapsed initiatives have plagued government procurement due to unscrupulous contractors and vendors,” he said.

Odeh said his goal is to bolster the government’s efforts in ensuring accountability, benefiting the citizens who ultimately consume these services.

“We want to ensure that every service is held to the highest standard of ethical business practices, accountability, and transparency,” Odeh said.

He said businesses and contractors committed to upholding accountability are encouraged to connect with Accountability Lab and the Centre for International Private Enterprise via ethicsfirst.org.

Odeh assured that support is readily available for those who express interest.

Odeh clarified that while the initiative is rooted in Nigeria, it has global implications. He said the collaboration with the Centre for International Private Enterprise extends its influence across Africa and beyond.

“We want every government contract to be obtained fairly and accountably, without any ulterior motives,” Odeh asserted.

He said the campaign is not only about holding businesses accountable but also about fostering a just and equitable environment via offering resources, guidance, and assistance, the initiative aims to bridge gaps in business practices and ultimately enhance accountability.