Leo Stan Ekeh, chairman of the Zinox Group, has called on the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to impose sanctions on ministries, departments and agencies that fail to comply with rules requiring preference for Nigerian companies in public contracts.
Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association’s 66th annual general conference, Ekeh described the Nigeria First Policy as a major protection for creatively ambitious local entrepreneurs, adding that the policy’s impact will remain limited unless enforcement becomes stricter.
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The conference, held under the theme “Beyond Limits,” featured a high-level session on e-commerce and procurement. The discussion focused on transforming public contracting through digital systems, transparency and the development of local capacity.
Ekeh used the platform to argue that Nigeria cannot build a sustainable digital economy if indigenous businesses are repeatedly set aside in favour of foreign alternatives.
