By Eghosa Emily
In a significant move aligned with the vision of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration’s M.E.G.A(Making Edo Great Again) agenda to bolster economic activities in the State, the Edo State Public Procurement Agency (EDPPA) has partnered with Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (ROLAC) to organize a comprehensive four-day Technical Workshop for the Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) Sector in the state. The initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of MSMEs and equip them with the necessary skills to respond effectively to procurement opportunities.
Addressing the participants at the workshop, the Managing Director of EDPPA, Mr. Henry Idogun, highlighted the purpose of the workshop which is to strengthen the economic capacities of small and medium enterprises, enabling them to seize contract opportunities within the public sector.
Mr. Idogun emphasized the Government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs, recognizing that such empowerment not only fosters economic growth, but also creates employment opportunities.
He said, “For the Government, empowering MSMEs indirectly expands the economy and generates jobs. This Government is dedicated to enhancing citizens’ living standards by fostering economic growth.” Mr. Idogun pointed out that many small and medium enterprises lack the necessary capacity to bid effectively, and the workshop aims to address this gap.
He emphasized that enhancing their bidding capabilities would lead to responsible bidding in the public sector, which, in turn, could significantly contribute to economic growth at the sub-national level.
He credited the workshop to the robust partnership with ROLAC, a project funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), which has been collaborating with the Edo State Government for the past two years. The ongoing workshop falls under the second phase of the ROLAC programme, known as ROLAC 2, under which the EDPPA partnership operates.
Expressing optimism, Mr. Idogun stated that the training sessions would augment participants’ knowledge and skills, enabling them to submit competitive bids. He emphasized that improved bidding would substantially enhance the MSMEs’ prospects of winning contracts, thereby fostering economic progress.
Facilitating the workshop, the Head of Enforcement, Compliance and Monitoring, EDPPA, Mr. James Owolabi, underscored the significance of the workshop in deepening MSMEs’ understanding of contracting elements and the obligations expected from them. The workshop stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and organizations, working together to strengthen the local economy and empower businesses within Edo State.
He elaborated further, emphasizing the pivotal role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in various stages of contracting. This encompassed their involvement from responding to invitations, presenting necessary documentation, and seeking procurement opportunities. He highlighted the significance of effective communication between these entities and the government, elucidating the essential competencies expected from small-scale businesses. He stressed the importance of educating these firms on Government’s requirements and imparting the skills necessary to manage their client relationships successfully.
Similarly, the Associate Project Officer of Anti-Corruption, ROLAC, Mr. Pwanakei Dala, emphasized the imperative of consolidating the e-procurement process. He commended the State Government for the comprehensive training programmes designed to familiarize MSMEs with the specific requisites of procurement procedures. Dala emphasized that robust governance manifests when the economy thrives, especially when MSMEs actively participate in the contracting process.
Expressing their gratitude, some participants, including Mr. Austine Aimiuwu, the CEO of A.A Orhion Investments LTD, lauded the Management of Edo State Public Procurement Agency for the opportunity created for learning and interaction through the workshop. Aimiuwu particularly acknowledged the Managing Director of EDPPA’s receptiveness to the concerns of MSMEs in the State, underscoring the value of such initiatives.
