The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step to improve the efficiency and transparency of health sector procurement by certifying a new group of procurement officers through the CIPS–HPA Nigeria qualification programme. This initiative is part of ongoing reforms aimed at minimizing waste, promoting transparency, and ensuring that essential medicines are both safe and affordable for citizens.
The certification event, held in Abuja, was attended by key officials, including Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Chukwudi Uche, the Country Director of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), and Pharm. Omokhapue Joseph, the CIPS Country Manager. In his remarks, Dr. Adedokun emphasized that the certification process represents a high standard of professional integrity and competence in procurement practices. He stated that the certification helps safeguard public health by ensuring that medical supplies are genuine, cost-effective, and responsibly sourced.
Dr. Adedokun further highlighted the broader impact of the programme, noting that the newly certified officers would help combat corruption and malpractice by rejecting counterfeit drugs, inflated contracts, and improper prescriptions. He also announced adjustments to procurement thresholds in response to current economic conditions, alongside the introduction of standardized documentation and strategic sourcing methods specific to health procurement.
In a push for professional accountability, Dr. Adedokun urged all procurement professionals to register with the National Procurement Officers Management System, declaring that only those listed would be formally recognized.
CIPS Country Director Chukwudi Uche also pointed to the economic gains of the programme, revealing that participating states have achieved 40% to 50% cost savings on health products. This development, he explained, makes it easier for Nigerians to access high-quality, affordable medicines and strengthens local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Pharm. Joseph noted that the participants came from various federal and state bodies such as the Federal Ministry of Health and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria. He described the certified officers as agents of change who will play a key role in shaping future policies and regulations within the health sector. The programme, backed by the Gates Foundation, aims to address systemic inefficiencies in health procurement by building professional capacity and fostering accountability.
Altogether, the initiative is expected to create a more efficient, transparent, and responsive procurement system within Nigeria’s health sector.