The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) has expressed deep concern over the mismanagement of public procurement processes in Nigeria.

It, therefore, called for urgent reforms to address the infiltration of unqualified practitioners (‘quacks’), adding that poor procurement practices are significantly hindering the country’s economic development and investment drive.

Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of CIPSM, Prof. Mohammed Aliyu, who stated this in an interview, lamented that the sector has been hijacked by individuals without requisite skills and knowledge.

“Everybody wants to do the job without the knowledge. Procurement is a profession, and it should be treated as such. You don’t allow just anyone to perform surgery. So, why should procurement be different?” he queried.

Aliyu stated that the Institute had been advocating proper implementation of the Procurement Act, which he said, was being flouted with impunity.

“The law is clear, but it’s not being followed. The Council that is supposed to supervise the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has not been inaugurated, and this is affecting the economy. It’s like having a referee who doesn’t know the rules of the game.”

He, however, said that lack of professionalism in procurement had led to a situation where contracts are awarded to unqualified individuals and companies, resulting in poor quality work and a waste of public funds.

“This is not just about procurement; it’s about the future of our country. If we don’t get procurement right, we won’t be able to build the roads, schools, and hospitals that our people need.”

He therefore urged the government to ensure that procurement professionals are given responsibility for managing the sector, saying this would lead to better value for money and reduced corruption.

The CIPSM boss also enjoined young professionals to consider a career in procurement, saying that it is a rewarding and challenging field that offers opportunities for growth and development.