The Rivers State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo, has confirmed eight nominees for the positions of Chairman and members of the Rivers State Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
This decision follows a formal request from Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who urged the Assembly to review and approve the nominees to strengthen the Bureau’s capacity in managing public procurement processes.
The confirmation took place during a session on Friday, where Speaker Oko-Jumbo presented the nominees on the House floor.

The individuals confirmed include Barrister Lawrence Oko-Jaja as Chairman, alongside Dr. Ernest Ibekwe Ekwe, Dr. Mina Ogbanga, Engr. Iseleye Amacree, Engr. Adokiye Oyagiri, Engr. Gift Alex-Hart, Mrs. Grace Oraronu, and Barrister Selinah Amonieah as members.
Each nominee brings a wealth of experience and expertise, which the Assembly believes will enhance the Bureau’s efficiency and accountability.
Governor Fubara’s letter to the House, which was read by Speaker Oko-Jumbo, outlined the legal basis for the nominations and underscored the importance of appointing qualified individuals to oversee the state’s public procurement activities.
The letter stated: “Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1, Sub-Section 4 of the Rivers State Public Procurement Law No. 4 of 2008, it is my pleasure to forward the underlisted nominees to the Rivers State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as members of the Board of Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement.”
Governor Fubara’s request highlights his administration’s commitment to enhancing transparency and efficiency in public procurement, a critical aspect of governance that directly affects the state’s financial management and service delivery.
By appointing competent professionals to the BPP, the administration aims to curb corruption, reduce waste, and ensure that procurement processes align with international best practices.
During the screening, Speaker Oko-Jumbo emphasised the significance of the nominees’ diverse professional backgrounds, which range from law and engineering to public administration and social development.
He noted that their collective expertise would be instrumental in driving the Bureau’s mission to regulate and oversee procurement activities across the state, thereby promoting fairness, competition, and accountability.
“The confirmation of these nominees is a crucial step towards reforming the state’s procurement system,” Oko-Jumbo remarked.
“Their extensive experience will contribute significantly to creating a more efficient and effective Bureau that aligns with the state’s objectives of transparency and accountability in public procurement.”
The screening process concluded with a voice vote, a unanimous decision in favour of the nominees.
Following the confirmation, Speaker Oko-Jumbo charged the new appointees to uphold the principles of probity, accountability, and transparency, which are foundational to the Bureau’s operations.
He urged them to ensure that their actions and decisions reflect the state’s commitment to ethical governance and the responsible use of public resources.
Furthermore, Speaker Oko-Jumbo directed the Clerk of the House, Dr. G. M. Gillis-West, to formally communicate the resolution of the Assembly to Governor Fubara.
This communication will pave the way for the swearing-in of the confirmed nominees, allowing them to assume their roles as soon as possible.
Their mandate will include overseeing the procurement processes within the state, ensuring that all transactions are conducted in a transparent and competitive manner that maximises value for the government and the public.
The confirmation of the Bureau’s new leadership is expected to bring a renewed focus on enhancing the integrity of the state’s procurement system.
The Assembly has expressed optimism that with these appointments, the BPP will not only enforce compliance with procurement laws but also introduce innovative practices that can drive economic efficiency and foster public trust in the state’s procurement processes.
The Rivers State House of Assembly has adjourned its sitting to Wednesday, 4th September 2024, as it continues its legislative duties aimed at improving governance and public administration in the state.
This development marks a significant step forward in the state’s efforts to reform its public procurement framework, reflecting a broader commitment to good governance and effective public financial management.
The newly confirmed members are now tasked with the critical responsibility of implementing reforms that will safeguard public resources and enhance the overall quality of public procurement in Rivers State.
As they prepare to take on their new roles, the expectation is that they will lead with integrity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to the principles of good governance.
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