Kano: The Federal Government has announced plans to establish a Procurement Center of Excellence at the Nigerian Navy Logistics College, Dawakin Tofa, Kano. This center aims to serve as a regional hub for training procurement officers across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, revealed this initiative in Kano during the inauguration of the Nigerian Navy Special Mandatory Continuous Public Procurement Capacity Development Training. Represented by Nasir Bello, Director of Civil Infrastructure, Adedokun mentioned that ongoing discussions between the Bureau and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) are in place to actualize this initiative.
The initiative is described as significant in streamlining procurement training for the Armed Forces and other public institutions. The training program is seen as a milestone in converting naval logistics officers into core procurement cadres, equipping them with essential technical knowledge and instilling values of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
The DG outlined the Bureau’s reform agenda, emphasizing modernizing legal frameworks, institutional strengthening, operational improvements, and integrity oversight. He highlighted the importance of inclusivity, particularly in empowering MSMEs and women-owned enterprises, aligning with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Rear Adm. Sulaiman Abdullahi, Chief of Logistics for the Nigerian Navy, who attended as the Special Guest of Honour, emphasized the crucial role of integrity and continuous learning in procurement practices. He pointed out that public procurement significantly impacts national expenditure and is essential for economic development.
Abdullahi commended the BPP for launching the program under the Public Procurement Act, 2007, and praised the Chief of Naval Staff for aligning the Navy with national reform agendas. Cmdr Ahmad Madawaki, commandant of the Nigerian Navy Logistics College, noted that this training, a first for the Nigerian Navy, provides officers with an opportunity to become certified procurement professionals and change agents. He urged participants to engage actively and uphold transparency and accountability, assuring them that the College has provided all necessary facilities for a seamless learning experience.