Federal Government Implements 14-Day Procurement Standstill

The federal government has mandated a 14-calendar-day standstill period for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and Procuring Entities before finalizing any public procurement contract awards. This directive is outlined in a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, dated August 6, 2026.

Ngozi Anyaelezu, the Acting head of public relations at the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), announced this decision, emphasizing the government's commitment to transparency, accountability, fairness, and value-for-money. The Director-General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale A. Adedokun, urged compliance from all accounting officers, procurement planning committees, and Tenders boards.

The standstill period allows unsuccessful bidders to seek clarifications or lodge complaints before contracts are concluded. A Notice of Intended Award must be issued to all bidders once a contract award recommendation is approved.

No contract agreement or Letter of Award can take effect until the standstill period expires. Non-compliance may lead to administrative sanctions under the Public Procurement Act.