The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Chain Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) has admitted a new batch of professionals into its 2025 Batch A Graduate Conversion Programme as part of its commitment to strengthening the procurement and supply chain sector in Nigeria. At an induction ceremony held at the Lagos office of the institute, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Mohammed Aliyu, congratulated the new inductees on their decision to professionalize their careers in procurement and supply chain management.

Prof. Aliyu emphasized the critical role of procurement and supply chain management in national development, stating that no country can function effectively without a structured and professional procurement system. He described CIPSMN as a pillar for establishing best practices in the sector, stressing that procurement roles should be reserved for qualified professionals who have undergone specialized training rather than individuals without formal expertise in the field.

Despite the importance of procurement professionals, Aliyu lamented the poor recognition and treatment of procurement experts, particularly in the public sector. He pointed out that many policymakers fail to give procurement officers the attention and support they need, making it difficult for them to contribute meaningfully to national development. He referenced the Country Procurement Assessment Report (CPAR 2000) and the Procurement Act of 2007, which he argued could have significantly improved procurement practices if fully implemented.

Highlighting the history of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Chain Management of Nigeria, Aliyu noted that it traces its roots back to 1974, initially operating as the Nigeria Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management (NIPSM) before receiving its Chartered status in 2007. He encouraged the new inductees to embrace professionalism, ethics, and continuous learning, reminding them that procurement is a specialized field that ensures value for money, strengthens business relationships, and improves profitability.