SYSTEMATIC ANALYSIS OF DEFENSE PROCUREMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study focused on the systematic analysis of defense procurement in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on strategic procurement areas, preferred procurement methods, institutional challenges, and the broader implications for national security and military effectiveness. The study adopted a descriptive survey design methodology and made use of Corkran sample size determination formula to arrive at a sample frame and a non-probability purposive sampling technique to select 384 respondents for the study, however, after data cleaning and verification, only 339 responses were found to be correctly completed and suitable for analysis. Data were collected exclusively through semi-structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze response patterns and identify trends, while one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed to determine whether statistically significant differences existed in responses across the service branches. Findings revealed that Military Vehicles (183 responses, 24.6%), Ammunition and Explosives (162 responses, 21.8%), Logistics and Information Technology/Cyber security (141 responses, 18.9%), and Personnel Equipment and Clothing (117 responses, 15.7%) as the most prioritized procurement areas. However, ANOVA results revealed no statistically significant differences in responses across branches (p-values > 0.05), suggesting shared institutional experiences and perceptions. Furthermore   , the study also showed that the most frequently applied procurement methods included Selective Tendering, Single-Source Procurement, Open Competitive Bidding, Two-Phase Procurement, and Offset Procurement. The study concluded that Defence procurement is a critical function in Nigeria, essential for ensuring national security, military effectiveness, and technological advancement. The study recommended that, Government should prioritize strategic areas of procurement such as Military Vehicles, Ammunition and Explosives, Logistics and Support Services, Information Technology and Cyber Security, and Personnel Equipment and Clothing to ensure the effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces; optimize procurement methods and Address challenges inhibiting Defence procurement.

Key Words: Defence, Nigeria’s Public Procurement Nigerian Defence Procurement, Challenges of Defence Procurement