The Manufacturing Partnering Group (MPG) recently collaborated with Lagos to sponsor the African Procurement Supply Chain Conference and Awards 2023 (#APSCHA2023), centered around the theme “Digitization and Future of Supply Chain” held at the Oriental Hotels Lagos. This partnership underscores MPG’s commitment to fostering a robust procurement ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa, aligning with global best practices in the industry.

The event witnessed the participation of diverse stakeholders from both public and private sectors, attracting delegates from various African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana. Throughout the conference, the importance of adhering to best practices in the procurement industry was emphasized, shedding light on the challenges practitioners face in their professional endeavors.

In his opening speech, Amen James, the National President of the Association of Public Procurement of Nigeria, stressed the significance of adhering to established procurement guidelines in the public sector. He also commended the Lagos State government for their efforts in following due process in procurement, emphasizing that procurement and supply chain practices are pivotal for development, necessitating attention in both the public and private sectors.

The conference’s objectives were well-aligned with the insights shared by Hannah Otu, Group-head Supply Chain of Jospong Group of Companies Ghana. She highlighted her organization’s focus on environmental impact analysis and their commitment to reducing carbon footprint through responsible procurement practices, including proper product disposal and support for eco-friendly technologies.

Fatai Idowu Onafowote, the Director-General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (PPA), showcased the agency’s remarkable progress in the procurement space. He mentioned the successful implementation of electronic bidding, notifications, and tendering, with a growing number of contractors embracing the new approach, despite initial challenges like manpower and resistance.

The event drew appreciation for MPG’s strategic partnership with the organizers, InstinctWave. Agha Abani, the Group Chairman of Harrybeat Group, expressed his delight at entering into a global strategic partnership alliance with MPG. This collaboration combined MPG’s expertise in procurement services with Harrybaet International Services’ proficiency in turnkey oil services, particularly in the Nigerian and African oil and gas sector.

Moreover, the conference recognized several outstanding organizations with awards from different sectors and countries. MTN Nigeria received recognition for their contributions in the telecom sector, while the Volta Region Authority, Ghana, was honored for their strides in the public sector. Lagos State Public Procurement Agency also received accolades for their role in advancing procurement practices in Nigeria. Additionally, CRDB Bank, Tanzania, was acknowledged for their impact in the banking sector’s financial ecosystem.