The industry must embrace a procurement system that reduces financial leakages through strict compliance with due process.
BY ANTHONY OMOH
Captain Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has emphasized the critical role of transparent procurement processes in achieving organizational and national goals. He stated that procurement practices must eliminate waste, curb corruption, and ensure value for money to increase government revenue and improve service delivery.
Najomo made this known at a symposium on understanding procurement process for optimum organizational performance held on Thursday, 6th February 2025, at Lillygate Hotels and Resorts, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. He highlighted Nigeria’s economic prosperity, infrastructural development, and good governance as key elements under the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Honourable Minister’s 5-Point Agenda. Najomo was represented by Director, Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engineer Godwin Balang.
According to him, procurement decisions in aviation impact airport infrastructure, air navigation services, safety regulations, and operational efficiency. Strict compliance with due process can reduce financial leakages, encourage fair bidding, and attract credible investors. Cost-effective contracts will maximize public funds and drive sector growth.
Najomo stated, “Public procurement is at the core of government efficiency and fiscal responsibility. In the aviation sector, procurement decisions affect airport infrastructure, air navigation services, safety regulations, and operational efficiency. If done right, procurement can attract investment, enhance aviation service delivery, and maximize revenue for the nation.”
He continued, “The industry must embrace a procurement system that reduces financial leakages through strict compliance with due process. It should encourage competition, attract credible investors, and ensure cost-effective contracts that maximize public funds for aviation development. Strengthening public-private partnerships will also drive efficiency and boost revenue generation.”
He reaffirmed the NCAA’s commitment to transparent procurement processes to promote efficiency, prevent financial mismanagement.
Dr. Rebecca Aghadinazu, Director of Corporate Services, NCAA, in her opening remarks, highlighted the need for internal capacity building and a better understanding of procurement roles within the NCAA.
She addressed structural and capacity challenges while stressing the importance of implementing the Public Procurement Act, 2007. She noted that procurement delays often result from poor understanding of BPP-approved procedures by user departments. She also stated that the Procurement Department faces criticism for delays and alleged procurement of inferior goods, despite the fact that user departments certify the goods.
Dr. Aghadinazu emphasized the need to educate all departments on their roles in the procurement cycle to achieve optimum results.
“It is important to note that procured goods, works, and services form a significant portion of any organization’s expenditure. To ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and value for money, all staff members must acquire relevant skills through proper awareness and sensitization,” she stated.
