The Edo State Government has trained 185 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on guidelines and procedures for participating in the public contracting exercises, in a bid to open up the space for more credible and versatile local businesses to access public and private funded projects.
The training was organized by the Edo State Public Procurement Agency (EDPPA) in Benin City and had Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs), contractors and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in attendance.
Head of Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi, said the training is aimed at providing SMEs with the right knowledge and skill prepared to bid for government contracts as they continue to seek ways to find their feet following the economic impact of the pandemic coronavirus.
He noted that the development would ensure that SMEs are well prepared to adequately participate in the state’s economy.
In stressing the importance of the capacity building, he said, the training will lead to breaking of barriers for procurement, to the advantage of the local players.
On his part, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Edo State Public Procurement Agency (EDPPA), Mr. Henry Idogun said contractors only have to be competent and possess the right skills for the job to win contracts in Edo, adding that the training is aimed at building the capacity of contractors and SMEs with the requisite qualifications in rebuilding Edo’s post covid-19 economy.
Daniel E. Ejodamen
(FIC, Benin City).
