Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times - February 25, 2025

The Katsina State Government has launched a training program for state and local government officials to enhance public procurement processes. The initiative, led by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), aims to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government operations.

The training, held at the Presidential Banquet Hall, Muhammadu Buhari House, brought together top government officials, including commissioners, permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, and procurement directors. This marks the second phase of the state’s procurement reform program.

Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Governor, Malam Faruq Lawal Jobe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Government Reforms, Alhaji Usman Isyaku, emphasized the critical role of procurement in governance. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing reforms despite economic challenges.

"Procurement plays a vital role in governance by ensuring resources are utilized effectively for public benefit. This administration has introduced key reforms to strengthen regulations and improve service delivery," he stated.

Key Pillars of Procurement Reform

Alhaji Usman Isyaku highlighted four key areas driving the state’s procurement reforms:

1. Strengthening Laws and Regulations – Aligning procurement laws with international best practices.
2. Capacity Building – Training procurement officers and stakeholders to enhance expertise.
3. Process Improvement – Streamlining procurement procedures for cost-effective and timely execution.
4. Compliance and Oversight – Establishing monitoring mechanisms to prevent misconduct and corruption.

The Director-General of the Katsina State Bureau of Public Procurement, Badamasi Yau Yantumaki, reiterated that reforms include policy adjustments to enhance efficiency and accountability.

Capacity Building and Professional Development

The training aims to equip participants with a thorough understanding of procurement laws, implementation strategies, and ethical standards. Key focus areas include:

• Compliance with the Katsina State Public Procurement Law (2017).
• Procurement procedures at the state level.
• The role of anti-corruption agencies in procurement oversight.
• Budgetary provisions before contract execution.

Additionally, Yantumaki announced the launch of a specialized procurement training program at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University. The inaugural batch consists of 20 participants, expected to complete their training by the end of March.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

The Katsina State Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening procurement practices to ensure public funds are managed with integrity. Officials were urged to apply the knowledge gained to improve service delivery.

"This training is not just a routine exercise but a strategic effort to instill professionalism, accountability, and transparency in procurement operations," Yantumaki stated.

The two-day workshop is expected to advance the state’s efforts in building an efficient and accountable procurement system.