Nigerians Set to Benefit from New World Bank Funding Initiative
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced that over 24,000 Nigerians will gain from a new $65 million phase of the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) project, backed by the World Bank. The announcement was made by NUC Secretary-General, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, during the signing of the performance agreement for this additional funding in Abuja.
Building on Previous Success
This new financial injection builds on the achievements of the initial $80 million SPESSE project launched in 2021. Ribadu explained that the initiative is designed to enhance Nigeria’s capabilities in procurement, environmental management, and social standards across both public and private sectors.
Addressing Skill Shortages in Governance
Ribadu emphasized the project’s role in tackling the shortage of skilled professionals in crucial governance areas. He noted that, with support from the World Bank and the coordination of the NUC, six centers of excellence have been established in each of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. These centers focus on providing sustainable capacity building in these vital sectors, ensuring inclusivity nationwide.
Selection and Impact of Participating Institutions
The NUC chief highlighted that participating universities were chosen through a rigorous selection process that evaluated their readiness, quality assurance, and sustainability. These institutions play a pivotal role in cultivating skilled talent to promote transparency, environmental stewardship, and inclusive development across the country.
A Commitment to Excellence and Sustainability
Ribadu characterized the signing of the performance agreement as a renewed commitment to accountability, sustainability, and organizational excellence. He disclosed that three of the six centers have already launched doctoral programs, with the remaining centers expected to commence by July 2026. The commission aims to enroll at least 60 PhD graduates and 60 international students while offering staff internships and expanding student exchange programs with global organizations.
Training and Capacity Building Initiatives
Adeboye Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), reported that the project has successfully trained over 2,700 personnel from the public and private sectors to enhance procurement capabilities throughout Nigeria. The upcoming phase will facilitate the rollout of Nigeria’s e-procurement system while expanding online training for policymakers and small to medium-sized enterprises managing public funds.
Focus on Sustainability and Long-Term Impact
Ishtiaq Siddique, World Bank Task Team Leader for SPESSE, noted that more than 40,000 participants were trained under the original project, with over 4,000 achieving certification in procurement, environmental, and social standards. He emphasized that the additional funding will prioritize enhancing the capacities of federal, state, and local government agencies to drive impactful development. Siddique reiterated the project’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring its benefits extend beyond donor support.
Commitment from Higher Education Leadership
Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, confirmed the institution’s dedication to enhancing professional capacity within the SPESSE framework. She pledged to strengthen graduate training, institutional ownership, and foster international collaboration.
