The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has underscored the importance of an efficient and transparent procurement process in enhancing the Nigerian Army’s (NA) operational effectiveness and overall mission readiness.
He made the remark on Wednesday, 5 November 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 on the theme, “Building Resilient and Transparent Defence Procurement System: Strategies for Sustained Operational Readiness in the Nigerian Army,” the COAS—represented by the Chief of Logistics (Army), Major General Adekunle Adeyinka—said the seminar aimed to strengthen the capacity of procurement officers and other key stakeholders, while aligning the Army’s procurement practices with international standards.
He noted that the Nigerian Army continues to work closely with all relevant agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, Central Bank of Nigeria, Bureau of Public Procurement, and the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation, to ensure an effective, transparent, and accountable procurement process.
According to the Army Chief, this collaborative approach has significantly improved operational readiness and enhanced the Army’s force posture, enabling it to discharge its constitutional responsibilities more effectively.
General Shaibu commended the Directorate of Procurement for its steady progress in modernizing its processes since its establishment in 2015, noting that procurement has evolved beyond administrative functions to become a strategic tool that demands integrity, accountability, risk management, and sustainable outcomes.
In his welcome address, the Acting Director of Procurement, Brigadier General Sadisu Yakasai, explained that the seminar was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of military procurement within regulated frameworks. He added that the Nigerian Army’s procurement efforts have focused on acquiring new capabilities, constructing and maintaining infrastructure, and sustaining operational assets—initiatives that have continued to strengthen the Army’s capacity.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adebowale Adedokun—represented by Engr. Isah Yusuf—described the seminar as timely, emphasizing the critical role of procurement in supporting the Army’s effectiveness despite limited funding.
He assured that the BPP recognizes the unique nature of defence procurement and remains committed to supporting the Nigerian Army, while urging continuous review of procurement strategies to align with global best practices and the Public Procurement Act.
The event was attended by the Commandants of the Army War College Nigeria and the Nigerian Army Ordnance School, Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Services Headquarters, representatives from the BPP and Office of the Auditor General of the Federation, registered contractors, and both serving and retired senior officers.
