By Pan Afric Reporters NASS Abuja| July 2, 2025
Senator representing Kwara North in the 10th Senate, Sen. Umar Sadiq Suleiman in motion on the floor of the Red Chamber has sues for patronage and greater engagement of Indigenous contractors in the execution of small scale project.
Senator Umar’s whose motion received overwhelming support of the senators describing it as a critical step toward grassroots economic development and poverty reduction.
The motion in its spirit and text seeks to addressing marginalization of indigenous contractors in the award of federal contracts below N50 million. He argued that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain the backbone of Nigeriaโs economy and should be empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Reacting to the motion, Senators whileย highlighting the harsh realities faced by local businesses, including stiff eligibility requirements such as three years of tax clearance, audited accounts, and experience thresholds that shut out many new entrants, said the motion is timely.
Senator Abdul Ningi noted that many Nigerians are unable to meet the conditions set by the Bureau of Public Procurement, making it difficult for them to access government jobs. He described the motion as timely and rooted in the needs of the people.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, while supporting the motion, stressed the need for local contractors to invest in quality, equipment, and manpower training. He warned that patriotism should not override competence, recalling his experience as a former governor where some local contractors delivered substandard work.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabioย supporting the motion, said Nigeria must stop awarding contracts that local firms are capable of handling to foreign companies.
Hence, He advocated for an amendment of the Public Procurement Act to open up opportunities for indigenous contractors, noting that even basic tasks like sweeping streets are now handled by foreign firms.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim decried what he called the โpost-colonial economic structureโ that still disadvantages local players. He urged the Senate to enact holistic legislation that protects domestic entrepreneurs and ensures equitable access to public sector jobs.
Other senators echoed the need for reforms, pointing out that beyond procurement issues, Nigerian graduates are often excluded from projects handled by foreign firms, with many relegated to menial roles despite being qualified.
The Senate in its resolution backs amendments of the Public Procurement and Local Content Acts to prioritize indigenous businesses, foster inclusive economic participation, and reduce capital flight.
Senator Umar Sadiq Suleiman’s motion underscores a growing legislative consensus toward inclusivity, homegrown development and job creation.
