The Director-General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (PPA), Fatai Idowu Onafowote, has advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of the state’s framework for disposing of public assets.
Speaking at a strategic retreat organized by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) Programme at the Festival Hotel, Festac, Lagos, Onafowote emphasised the need to enhance transparency, accountability, and align practices with international standards.
The retreat, which focused on reviewing the existing Guidelines for the Disposal of Public Assets in Lagos State, provided a platform for the Director-General to commend ROLAC, the European Union, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Idea (IDEA) for their ongoing commitment to promoting good governance across Nigeria.
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Onafowote stressed that the disposal of public assets extends beyond a mere technicality, noting it as “a governance issue that directly impacts the credibility of our procurement processes.”
He acknowledged that while Lagos has established foundational guidelines, the dynamic environment, marked by technological advancements and evolving operational requirements, necessitates a thorough re-evaluation of current procedures.
“The current framework must be realigned to reflect present-day realities and international standards,” he stated, describing the retreat as a “timely and strategic step toward simplifying processes, closing gaps, and improving institutional effectiveness.”
The PPA Director-General reiterated the state government’s dedication, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu‘s leadership, to reforms aimed at ensuring value for money, reducing asset misappropriation, and bolstering accountability within the public sector.
He underscored the crucial role of collaboration among stakeholders—including civil society organizations, procurement professionals, legal experts, and development partners—in crafting updated guidelines that are both practical and enduring.
“The integrity of our institutions is measured not just by how we acquire assets, but also by how we dispose of them. Lagos State is ready to lead by example,” he affirmed.
Samson Nduleme, representing ROLAC, reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to supporting government initiatives at both federal and state levels that seek to reform justice systems and restore public confidence in governance.
He acknowledged the substantial number of assets in Lagos State requiring disposal and expressed ROLAC’s confidence in the PPA’s capacity to manage the process effectively.
“That is why we are working closely with the Agency to review the guidelines for disposing of government assets in a way that earns public trust,” Nduleme stated.
Nduleme further emphasised that ROLAC’s support for government programs is driven by the objective of fostering transformative changes that will encourage citizens to trust their leaders and institutions.
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He expressed optimism that the session would build lasting confidence not only in Lagos State but also inspire similar reforms in other states, adding that “Transparency in asset disposal is key to restoring public trust in government.”
The event drew participation from representatives of various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), civil society organizations, and the private sector.
These stakeholders are expected to contribute significantly to the drafting of updated disposal guidelines, as part of broader efforts to promote good governance and combat corruption in public administration.
