In a bold move to deepen Nigeria’s self-reliance and support for home-grown innovation, two major federal bodies — the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) — have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fully implement the “Nigeria First” Policy.
The MoU, which was formalised on Monday, July 28, 2025, is a strategic step under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, aiming to give local products and services priority in national procurement. At its heart, the policy champions Nigerian-made goods, services, and homegrown infrastructure while building sustainable value chains that promote job creation and economic stability.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the BPP Headquarters in Abuja, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, described the agreement as a turning point for Nigeria’s industrial and technological ecosystem.
“With this MoU, we are tackling about 80% of the challenges we face convincing investors and foreign partners,” he said. “Nigeria is no longer a dumping ground. We’re stepping up to promote what we produce — proudly Nigerian.”
Halilu also highlighted that NASENI now has over 50 market-ready products, and with BPP’s support, these innovations will move from shelf to service. He proudly revealed that NASENI has secured over $2 billion in partnerships with China alone, a feat that reflects the agency’s recent transition from research-based prototypes to full commercialization.
“From renewable energy parks in Nasarawa to our partnership with Abuja Technology Village, we are pushing boundaries. We want to make Nigeria a powerhouse in technology, manufacturing, and industrial development,” he added.
For the BPP, this collaboration isn’t just policy — it’s a concrete system change.
Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of BPP, called the MoU a “bridge between production and procurement.” According to him, the partnership will help Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) move beyond rhetoric by making Nigerian solutions the default choice.
“NASENI’s innovations — from surveillance drones to solar backup systems — will now be built into procurement plans. We’re integrating their product catalogue directly into the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal (NOCOPO) so these solutions are visible and prioritized,” Adedokun said.
He made it clear that the Nigeria First Policy is not about protectionism but patriotism backed by performance. With NASENI’s products already certified by SON and NAFDAC, the BPP is confident they can deliver quality to every government arm.
Between January and June this year alone, NOCOPO’s price intelligence saved Nigeria ₦173 billion, $155 million, and €1.7 million — savings that underscore the importance of streamlining procurement with local value in mind.
Dr. Adedokun also unveiled an update to BPP’s procurement threshold: MDAs can now approve goods worth up to ₦5 billion and infrastructure projects up to ₦10 billion without delay. He urged all government institutions to follow NASENI’s lead and “look inward before looking outward.”
“Let me be clear — the best isn’t abroad. It’s being built right here at home. And from now on, our policies will back that fact with firm reform and real action,” he concluded.
This partnership marks a significant step in Nigeria’s journey toward self-reliance, local innovation, and economic independence — and it’s only just beginning.
