Lagos PPA DG pushes for overhaul of Public Asset Disposal Framework 

Lagos State is poised to revolutionize its public asset disposal system, with the Director-General of the Public Procurement Agency (PPA), Fatai Idowu Onafowote, advocating for sweeping reforms to enhance transparency and align with global standards.

Speaking at a strategic retreat organized by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) Programme at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Festac, Lagos, on Tuesday, Onafowote emphasised the need for a modernized framework to bolster public trust and fiscal responsibility.

“Disposal of public assets is not merely a technical function,” Onafowote declared.

“It is a governance issue that directly impacts the credibility of our procurement processes,” he said, highlighting the urgency of updating existing guidelines to address technological advancements and evolving operational demands.

“The current framework must be realigned to reflect present-day realities and international standards. This retreat is a timely and strategic step toward simplifying processes, closing gaps, and improving institutional effectiveness,” he explained.

Onafowote praised the collaborative efforts of ROLAC, the European Union, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) for their commitment to strengthening governance across Nigeria.

He underscored Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s dedication to reforms that ensure value for money and curb asset misappropriation.

“The integrity of our institutions is measured not just by how we acquire assets, but also by how we dispose of them,” he concluded. “Lagos State is ready to lead by example.”

ROLAC representative Samson Nduleme reaffirmed the organization’s support for Lagos’ reform efforts, emphasizing the importance of transparent asset disposal.

“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 said.

He added, “We hope that at the end of this session, we will build lasting confidence not only in Lagos State but also inspire similar reforms in other states. Transparency in asset disposal is key to restoring public trust in government.”

The retreat convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from ministries, departments, agencies, civil society, and the private sector, to collaborate on drafting updated guidelines.