The Rivers State House of Assembly has officially confirmed Barrister Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN, as Chairman of the Board of the Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement (RSBoPP).

The assembly also approved the appointments of Dr. Ernest Ibekwe Ekwe, and Dr. Mina Ogbanga, Engr. Iseleye Amachree, Engr. Adokiye Oyagiri, Engr. Gift Alex-Hart, Mrs. Grace Osaronu, and Barrister Selinah Amonieah as board members.

The confirmation followed a detailed screening process conducted by the assembly members, which came after a letter from the State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, requesting the House to assess the suitability of the nominees.

The Governor’s letter, read by Speaker Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo referred to Section 1, Sub-Section 4 of the Rivers State Public Procurement Law No. 4 of 2008 as the basis for the screening process.

During their screening, the nominees were questioned about how their experience would contribute to effective policy implementation and procurement practices in the state. Barrister Oko-Jaja committed to ensuring that the board would prioritize value for money in government contracts if confirmed.

The Speaker emphasized the importance of the nominees maintaining trust and loyalty to the State Government, enforcing best practices, and ensuring probity and accountability in procurement activities.

Following the screening, the lawmakers confirmed the nominees by voice vote. Speaker Oko-Jumbo directed the Clerk, Dr. G. M. Gillis-West, to communicate the House’s resolution to Governor Fubara for the necessary swearing-in procedure.

The House of Assembly will reconvene on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.