In a recent four-day training held at the Bureau's Conference Hall in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, Engr. Bashiru Olayiwola, a Procurement Reform Specialist with the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in procurement processes. He urged procurement officers to become adept in utilizing Standard Bidding Documents to ensure compliance with legal provisions, guidelines, and regulations, ultimately achieving value for money in prospective projects.

Olayiwola stated, “It is essential to foster accountability, transparency, fairness, and competitiveness in procurement. The implementation of standardized bidding documents is critical to regulating the procurement of goods, works, and services.”

Mrs. Bolarinwa Adebowale, the Bureau's Coordinator, encouraged participants to remain focused and apply the skills acquired during the training for improved service delivery in their procurement roles.

Mr. Akindele Akinrinmade, Director of Monitoring, Evaluation, Compliance, and Enforcement, highlighted the necessity for updated knowledge and skills in procurement across Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), tertiary institutions, and Local Governments.

Facilitator Mr. Jimoh Rafiu explained that the use of standard bidding documents promotes fairness by providing all bidders with equal information and opportunities, minimizing bias and errors to ensure value for money.

Participants Mrs. Ajoke Usman and Mr. Oluwatosin Adejobi, representing Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service, respectively, shared that the training was enlightening and would significantly benefit their work in their respective offices.