By Joan Nwagwu
Amb.Engr. Abdullahi Hashim, a prominent member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has commended President Ahmed Tinubu for approving the Renewed Hope Nigeria
First Procurement Policy in the country.
Hashim gave the commendation in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja.
He described the policy as a bold and strategic move that places Nigerian talent and innovation at the center of national development.
It would be recalled that the new policy was recently confirmed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris,who directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise local content in procurement processes.
The policy also mandates that only when no viable local option exists may the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) grant a waiver for foreign alternatives.
According to him, i commend Mr president’s courageous leadership in implementing the Renewed Hope-Nigeria First Procurement Policy, a palpable initiative that will indelibly shape our nation’s economic trajectory.
“By prioritising locally-made products in government procurement, you are fostering a culture of self-reliance, boosting internal productivity, and promoting economic growth,”he said.
Hashim, who is also a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and an alumnus of Harvard University, said the policy would significantly stimulate local industries.
He also said that it would reduce dependency on foreign products, and provide a much-needed boost to indigenous engineering capacity.
Hashim therefire expressed optimism that the implementation of the policy would lead to enhanced job creation, improved technical competence, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s industrial base.
“This visionary policy will have far-reaching impacts on the economic empowerment, which means Mr president is injecting lives into our economy, creating jobs, and stimulating innovation;
“This policy will help boost business confidence.This will encourage investments in local products and will enhance entrepreneurship confidence amongst the business players.
“This is because it will help us in reclaiming our economic sovereignty and empowering our future sustenance.
“Additionally, the policy will give tremendous aid to Human Liberation, by breaking free from the foreign importation of certain goods, we build liberation and promote self determination,”he said.
He further said that Mr president efforts on the policy would guarantee a sustainable development in the country’s dealings.
He added that this because, the policy aligns with global best practices, promoting sustainable development, and reducing our carbon footprint.
He urged stakeholders, including private sector players and government institutions, to align with the vision and ensure full compliance for the collective advancement of the nation.
“We celebrate your commitment to nation-building and look forward to the transformative impact of this policy on our economy and society,” he added.