The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has launched a new $65 million (approx. ₦97.5 billion) funding phase for the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) project. This fresh injection of capital is set to benefit over 24,000 Nigerians through advanced professional training and the strengthening of institutional capacity.
Coordinated by the National Universities Commission (NUC), the project aims to close the critical skills gap in procurement, environmental management, and social standards—three pillars essential for transparency and sustainable industrial growth.
Building on a $145 Million Legacy This new phase builds upon the initial $80 million investment launched in 2021. According to Abdullahi Ribadu, Executive Secretary of the NUC, the project has already established six Centers of Excellence across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Key Milestones and 2026 Targets:
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Academic Depth: Specialized programs have been introduced, ranging from short executive courses to full degrees. Three centers have already launched PhD programs, with the remaining three scheduled to begin by July 2026.
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Global Outreach: The new phase targets at least 60 PhD graduates, the enrollment of 60 foreign students, and expanded international staff internships to bring Nigerian standards to global parity.
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Impact to Date: World Bank Task Team Leader Ishtiak Siddique revealed that over 40,000 participants have already been trained, with 4,000 receiving formal certifications in environmental and social standards.
Digitalizing the Market: e-Procurement for SMEs A major highlight of this phase is the integration of technology into government business. Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), noted that the funds will support the nationwide rollout of Nigeria’s electronic procurement (e-procurement) system.
This digital shift is specifically designed to:
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Enhance SME Participation: Making it easier for small and medium enterprises to bid for and manage public contracts.
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Improve Transparency: Reducing human interference in the allocation of public funds.
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Capacity Building: Expanding online training platforms for policymakers and business owners managing public-sector projects.
By professionalizing the “gatekeepers” of public and private spending, the SPESSE project is laying the groundwork for a more accountable and climate-resilient Nigerian economy.
