Transparent Procurement System Essential in Boosting Army’s Operational Readiness – COAS Shaibu
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has underscored the importance of an efficient and transparent procurement system in strengthening the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities and sustaining national defence readiness.
He made this known on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, during the opening ceremony of the Directorate of Procurement Seminar, held at the Army War College, Nigeria. The event was organized by the Office of the Chief of Army Staff in collaboration with Lathad Consulting Nigeria Limited.
Speaking through the Chief of Logistics (Army), Major General Adekunle Adeyinka, the Army Chief said the seminar, themed “Building Resilient and Transparent Defence Procurement System: Strategies for Sustained Operational Readiness in the Nigerian Army,” was aimed at improving the capacity of procurement officers and enlightening other stakeholders on international best practices in defence procurement.
General Shaibu noted that the Nigerian Army has continued to collaborate with key stakeholders such as the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Bureau of Public Procurement, and the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation to strengthen its procurement process.
He added that such cooperation had greatly enhanced the Army’s operational efficiency, enabling it to better execute assigned tasks and respond effectively to national security challenges.
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While commending the Directorate of Procurement for its progress since its establishment in 2015, the COAS emphasized that public procurement had evolved from a mere administrative function to a strategic process built on integrity, accountability, risk management, and sustainable outcomes.
In his welcome address, the Acting Director of Procurement, Brigadier General Sadisu Yakasai, said the seminar was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of the military procurement system within evolving regulatory frameworks.
He explained that the Nigerian Army’s procurement efforts have focused on acquiring new capabilities and platforms, constructing and maintaining accommodation facilities, and upgrading existing structures and equipment. These, he said, have significantly improved the Army’s operational posture and performance.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun—represented by Engr. Isah Yusuf—commended the initiative, describing the seminar as timely and essential to sustaining operational effectiveness despite limited funding.
Adedokun assured that the Bureau understands the peculiarities of defence and military procurement systems and would continue to provide necessary support. He urged the Nigerian Army to constantly review its procurement strategies to align with global best practices while complying with the Public Procurement Act.
The seminar attracted senior officers from the Defence and Services Headquarters, Commandants of the Army War College Nigeria and the Nigerian Army Ordnance School, representatives from the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation, as well as registered contractors, former Directors of Procurement, and other stakeholders in the defence sector.
By PRNigeria
