Bureau of Public Enterprises: Re-appointed DG advocates responsible reform & privatization

The newly re-appointed CEO of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) , Mr Alex Ayoola Okoh, has reaffirmed his resolve to reposition the organization for a future of responsible reform and privatization.

“At the onset of the current leadership, the Bureau introduced a new vision and programme philosophy aimed at rediscovering its core values of transparency and integrity, and repositioning it for a future of responsible reform and privatization.

“What is required of us is a paradigm shift. Critical thinking suggests that problems are not resolved by the same type of thinking that created or indulged them,” said Okoh.

The BPE is the Federal Government’s Agency charged with the overall responsibility of implementing the Nigerian policy on privatization and commercialization.

"BPE is open for business"- Alex Okoh (2019) pic.twitter.com/zLbPAKOxQ9

— Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) Nigeria (@BPENigeria) March 31, 2021

Mr Okoh, who recently got a second term as the BPE’s boss, has set up a 6-point agenda for his administration in the next four years which includes working towards encouraging more private sector operators to invest in critical sectors of the Nigerian economy through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

Other areas of interest by his new administration would be: Completion of all ongoing reform and privatization activities of the Bureau; Carrying out all other transactions that are  scheduled for reforms and privatization in the Privatization and Commercialization Act 1999 of the BPE; Ensure passage of all reform bills pending before the National Assembly; Ensure robust engagement with all  relevant stakeholders; and Deepening of the core values of the Bureau by ensuring integrity and transparency, team-work, accountability and professionalism.

“…In all our transactions, transparency and accountability will continue to be our watch word. It is also an opportunity for the country to witness increased activities in our mandate, which will lead to more job opportunities for our teeming youths and increased revenue for the Federal Government,”  he added.

Mr Okoh disclosed that the Federal Government has simplified the PPP process which now allows private sector players to scout for projects to be financed through the PPP model.

He said he would immediately put in place, a template to further reinvigorate the Bureau’s activities and step up efforts towards revving up those enterprises that are due for either reforms or privatization.

Amaka E. Nliam