FG Signs Executive Order, Bars Govt Agencies from Foreign Procurement

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) of Nigeria has approved a groundbreaking policy aimed at boosting the nation’s local industries and reducing reliance on foreign imports. The new framework, known as the Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy, places the country at the heart of public procurement and business activities, with a strong emphasis on empowering domestic businesses.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the approval of the policy after the fifth cabinet meeting of 2025, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting, presided over by President Bola Tinubu, concluded with several key decisions aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s procurement processes and prioritizing local content in government spending.

“The Renewed Hope Nigeria First Policy is a bold step towards fostering a new business culture that is confident, self-reliant, and firmly rooted in Nigeria. It is designed to ensure that the government’s spending benefits local industries and creates jobs for Nigerians,” Idris said during the briefing.

Under the new policy, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government will be prohibited from purchasing foreign goods or services that are available locally, unless granted a waiver by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP). The BPP will also be tasked with updating procurement rules to favor local content, managing procurement officers across MDAs, and maintaining a comprehensive database of certified local suppliers.

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Minister Idris emphasized that the new policy aims to transform government spending into a tool for economic growth, arguing that Nigeria should no longer spend taxpayer money on foreign products that could be produced domestically. He cited the importation of sugar despite Nigeria’s local production capacity as a prime example of inefficiency in the system.

“Government money must work for Nigerians, not foreign intermediaries,” Idris stated, underscoring the need for the policy to promote a sustainable local business culture that can compete globally.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has been directed to draft an Executive Order that will provide legal backing for the new procurement framework. In addition, all MDAs will be required to resubmit their procurement plans to align with the policy. Failure to comply could result in sanctions, including the cancellation of contracts that do not meet the new guidelines.