Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, fairness, and due process in public procurement.
The exercise brought together representatives of the Local Government, members of the technical committee, management staff, procurement officials, participating contractors, observers, the press, and other relevant stakeholders to witness the opening and reading of bids submitted for the proposed road construction project.
The exercise was conducted in line with the principles of open and competitive bidding, which promote transparency, credibility, and equal opportunity for eligible contractors to participate in public procurement processes.
At the commencement of the exercise, officials explained the importance of adhering to established bidding procedures and applicable procurement regulations. In furtherance of this commitment, the bidding box, which had remained securely locked following the submission of bids, was inspected in the presence of participants before being opened. The submitted bids were subsequently retrieved, counted, numbered, and read aloud, allowing the contractors and observers to witness the process and confirm their submissions.
During the exercise, the documents submitted by participating contractors were examined against the stipulated bidding requirements. These included letters of bid, bid securities or insurance bonds, company profiles, financial statements, registration documents, and other technical and financial documents specified in the bidding requirements.
The bid-opening exercise also provided an opportunity for participants to raise observations and seek clarification on aspects of the procurement process. Concerns were raised regarding missing documents, including drawings and other required submissions, while participants sought clarification on compliance with the established bidding requirements.
Contractors also observed that the timeframe allowed for the preparation and submission of bids was relatively short. They appealed to the Local Government to consider extending submission periods in future procurement exercises to enable contractors to prepare comprehensive and competitive bids.
The officials acknowledged the observations and assured participants that their comments would be noted for consideration in subsequent exercises. The engagement highlighted the importance of constructive stakeholder participation in strengthening procurement procedures and promoting efficiency in public contract administration.
In her remarks on behalf of the department, the Head of Unit expressed profound appreciation to the representative of the Executive Chairman, members of the technical committee, management staff, participating contractors, the press, observers, and other stakeholders for their presence and cooperation throughout the exercise.
She assured the participants that all bids opened would undergo a thorough evaluation in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency Law, as amended in 2021, and the relevant bidding requirements. She further explained that the evaluation report would be forwarded to the appropriate approving authority and that the outcome would be communicated to the participating bidders through the appropriate channels.
She emphasized that the opening of bids did not constitute an award of contract, noting that the selection of a successful contractor would be determined by the prescribed evaluation process and compliance with the applicable procurement requirements.
In her closing remarks, the Majority Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Eletu Zainab, Councillor representing Ward C1, appreciated the participants for their cooperation and active involvement in the exercise.
She expressed confidence that the process would lead to a credible evaluation and the selection of a qualified contractor for the successful execution of the road project. She reiterated the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability in public procurement, emphasizing that the successful completion of Gbetu Iwerekun Road would contribute to improved road infrastructure and enhance the welfare of residents within the benefiting community.
The closing prayer was offered by the Head of Department, WAPA, Mrs. Bokoh Sewanu Abosede, bringing the exercise to a close.
The official bid-opening exercise represents a significant step in the procurement process for Gbetu Iwerekun Road under the Conference 57 on 114 Road Projects initiative. Ibeju-Lekki Local Government remains committed to ensuring that public projects are handled in accordance with established procedures, with due regard for transparency, accountability, quality service delivery, and the best interests of the people.
Public Affairs Unit
Ibeju-Lekki Local Government
12/10/2026.