Anti-graft agency assures a level playing field for all bidders, under the watch of BPP and civil society monitors
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has kicked off the financial bidding phase of its ongoing procurement exercise, sending a strong message of zero tolerance for manipulation, favoritism, or underhand dealings in public contracting.
The event, held at ICPC headquarters in Abuja, marks the second stage of the process, following a technical bidding round that, according to officials, was conducted with the same uncompromising principles of openness, fairness, and accountability.
Speaking on behalf of the Secretary to the Commission, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu, DSSRS, the Acting Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Akeem Folaranmi, fsi, declared that the exercise was anchored on equal opportunity for all bidders, in line with the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) Act.
“No bidder will be disadvantaged at any stage. We are committed to a process that is transparent, competitive, and accountable,” he assured.
ICPC’s Head of Procurement, Barr. Garba A. Ibrahim described the process as one “rooted in honesty and integrity,” noting that the involvement of independent observers was a deliberate step to guarantee transparency.
“The technical bidding has been concluded successfully. The financial bidding will determine the eventual winner through a fair and competitive process,” he said, before formally handing over the bid package containing the keys to signify the official start of the phase.
A representative of the BPP commended the ICPC for setting a high bar in procurement compliance, stating that the measures in place ensure that no participant is shortchanged.
“The inclusivity of having all pre-qualified bidders present boosts trust and transparency in the exercise,” the representative noted.
The bid opening was witnessed by monitors from the BPP, the Advocacy for Procurement, Transparency and Fairness, and other civil society stakeholders, who observed the proceedings from start to finish.
ICPC has pledged to communicate the outcome of the bidding process in strict accordance with due process and established timelines, reinforcing its reputation as one of Nigeria’s most transparent public institutions.