By Frank Ulom
Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, PhD, has urged residents to embrace the Commission’s digital procurement system as part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency and efficiency.
He made the call on Monday in Calabar during a training programme on “Policy Reforms and Digitalisation of the NDDC Procurement System”, where he emphasised that the initiative would curb irregularities in contract processes and promote accountability.
Orok who was represented, stated that the training was designed to equip participants with the knowledge required to navigate the evolving procurement framework, adding that digitalisation would eliminate unwholesome practices previously associated with manual systems.
According to him, “The transition to a digital procurement platform is a critical step towards ensuring transparency, accountability and equal access to opportunities within the NDDC system.”
The training featured lectures delivered by a team of academics and legal practitioners, who provided detailed insights into procurement policies and procedures. Participants were guided through step-by-step processes, including compliance requirements and documentation standards necessary for engagement with the Commission.
Legal experts also addressed the regulatory framework underpinning the reforms, offering clarity on policy documents and emphasising adherence to best practices. The sessions aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of the legal implications of procurement activities and ensure informed participation.
With the theme “Promoting Best Procurement Practices and Digital System for NDDC”, the event attracted stakeholders from the business community, policymakers and media practitioners.
