Training youths in procurement, project management could create up to 130,000 jobs – NBS

A report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates that if 5 to 10 percent of unemployed young persons in Nigeria are absorbed into the procurement sector, up to 130,000 new jobs could be created, providing a boost to the economy. Experts discussed this during a five-day Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPSSE) conference recently held in Ikeja, where they highlighted the importance of modernised procurement through training and certification to open doors to roles as procurement officers, project managers, or compliance specialists.

The procurement sector in Nigeria involves the entire lifecycle of acquiring inputs, from identifying needs and sourcing suppliers to negotiating contracts, managing delivery, and making payments. Its primary objective is to obtain the best possible value for money while ensuring transparency, efficiency, fairness, and accountability. Public proceurement is the process used by government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to purchase items using public funds.

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Nigeria’s procurement sector has been steadily aligning with global standards to enhance transparency, sustainability, and youth employment, following reforms introduced in 2007. The reforms includes the establishment of the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Nigerian Open Contracting Platform.

Experts at the conference noted that although progress has been made, further alignment with international best practices is still needed.

Fatai Idowu Onafowote, DG of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, affirmed the committment of agency to foster the growth of the sector, noting, “You need both the human and his knowledge, to deliver the kind of result you desire. We are committed to developing them in terms of expanding their knowledge, expanding their understanding on everything that concerns procurement as well as environmental and social standards.”

“When we talk about infrastructure, human capital, we are there, always willing to develop the human resource to ensure understanding is vast in making sure development reaches the citizen.”

He also emphasised the link between environmental sustainability and youth engagement, highlighting that it is emerging as more than a pathway for contracts, but a route to skills, jobs, and a brighter future.

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Job creation through sustainable procurement

James Akanmu, deputy centre leader at SPESSE, highlighted the potential for Nigerian youths to benefit from sustainable procurement practices. He explained,

“For example, waste can be recycled, repurposed, or reused. If a tyre is no longer fit for use, instead of discarding it, it can be transformed into a flower pot, shredded for pavement, or used to improve roads. Previously, such tyres would block drains and cause flooding. These are opportunities people can take advantage of. Similarly, addressing labour standards, forced labour, child labour, and gender-based violence can create jobs, such as counselling, while tackling pressing social issues.”

He added, “The recycling process needs to be integrated, and this is where industries must play their part. Industries don’t need to sit idle as labour is available. People can work while acquiring skills. When properly engaged, these processes not only generate employment but also protect the environment and foster entrepreneurship. Ultimately, it’s a win for everyone.”

Akanmu further emphasised that by modernising procurement systems and adopting global standards, Nigeria can enhance transparency and development while providing meaningful employment for its youth, thereby shaping a sustainable future for the nation.

Ngozi Ekugo is a Snr.Correspondent at Business day. She has an MSc in Management from the University of Hertfordshire, and is an associate member of CIPM. Her career spans multiple industries, including a brief stint at Goldman Sachs in London,

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