The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government to immediately implement the newly approved ‘Nigeria First’ policy on public procurement, in line with directives issued by President Bola Tinubu and endorsed by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting on May 5, 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday, BPP director-general, Dr. Adedokun Adebowale, said the policy places a premium on the use of Nigerian goods, services, and contractors in all government procurement processes.
The directive forms a core part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at strengthening local industries, enhancing job creation, and promoting economic self-reliance.
“The Bureau calls on all MDAs and relevant stakeholders to fully comply with the new policy, which prioritises local content and indigenous participation across the federal procurement landscape,” the statement read.
Dr. Adebowale announced that an Executive Order would be issued by the Attorney-General of the Federation to provide full legal backing and enforceability for the presidential directive, while a circular from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) will offer additional guidance for institutional compliance.
To ensure strict enforcement, BPP outlined immediate steps all MDAs must take.
“Prioritise locally available goods and services in all procurement activities.Justify and seek prior written waivers from BPP before procuring foreign goods or services.”
Others include “provisions for technology transfer, local production, or skill development where foreign options are unavoidable.”
“Audit existing procurement plans and submit revised versions aligned with the “Nigeria First” policy.
“Note that violations of the policy will attract sanctions, including cancellation of contracts and disciplinary action against erring officers.”
The BPP also announced plans to develop a Local Content Compliance Framework, which will serve as a guiding structure for implementation.
A register of high-quality Nigerian manufacturers and service providers is also being compiled to guide MDAs during procurement.
“In collaboration with our development partners, we are already training procurement officers and contractors across the six geopolitical zones on the revised Standard Bidding Documents and local content compliance,” Dr. Adebowale said.
The Bureau further pledged to engage in nationwide sensitisation and public awareness campaigns to foster transparency, understanding, and ownership of the policy by both public and private stakeholders.
“This transformative policy will help stimulate domestic production, generate employment opportunities, and advance sustainable national development,” the statement added. “It is time to put Nigerian capacity first in Nigeria’s development journey.”
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