BPE Announces 91 Federal Assets for Sale – Here’s How to Buy

The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has unveiled plans to privatise 91 federal assets as part of efforts to optimise public enterprises, attract investment, and boost efficiency across key sectors of Nigeria’s economy.

BPE Director-General Ayodeji Gbeleyi announced during a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, stressing that the privatisation process will be handled carefully, on a sector-by-sector basis, to safeguard national interests.

Breakdown of Assets by Sector

According to Gbeleyi, the assets span multiple sectors:

• Oil and Gas: 16 companies, including refineries and depots
  
• Agriculture: 12 companies
  
• Aviation: 20 companies
  
• Other Public Enterprises: 28 companies

Additional assets operate in mining and steel, transport, eco-tourism, and include two agencies under the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

Out of the 91 companies, 35 will be fully privatised, while the remaining 57 will undergo partial privatisation. The DG explained that the Public Enterprises Act does not impose a deadline, allowing the government to approach the process cautiously and strategically.

Why Privatisation Matters

“Privatisation and concession transactions require rigorous planning and careful execution,” Gbeleyi said. “Each transaction is handled individually, and the structure depends on operational realities and the business case. Financial, legal, and technical advisors will guide each process to ensure success.”

He highlighted the telecommunications sector as an example of reform-driven growth. “Without transforming NITEL’s monopoly, the telecom and e-commerce sectors would not have reached their current potential,” he said. Similarly, reforms in the power sector have helped prevent wider-scale challenges, while creating jobs and skill development opportunities for Nigerians.

Opportunities for Buyers

Investors interested in acquiring federal assets can participate through a formal application process coordinated by the BPE. Interested buyers should:

1. Register on the BPE portal to access privatisation notices and requirements.
   
2. Engage advisors (financial, legal, technical) to evaluate potential acquisitions.
   
3. Submit bids according to sector-specific guidelines and timelines provided by BPE.

Projects such as the installation of millions of electricity meters and expansion in telecoms show how privatisation can deliver direct economic impact and employment opportunities.

Stock Exchange Listings Coming Soon

Gbeleyi also revealed that the government plans to list two electricity distribution companies and one generation company on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, though the names of these companies remain confidential.

Strengthened Legal and Compliance Framework

To ensure transparency and adherence to best practices, BPE has enhanced its legal and compliance structure, establishing dedicated units for contract management, counsel support, and dispute resolution.

“Under my leadership, all transactions will remain fully law-abiding, transparent, and compliant,” Gbeleyi concluded.