RAAMP Stakeholders Build Global Expertise in Procurement and Contract Management to Accelerate Rural Infrastructure Delivery in Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria (ILO News): The Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) has taken a bold step toward improving rural connectivity and boosting agricultural markets in Nigeria. From 17th to 21st November 2025, nineteen key stakeholders participated in a high-level international training at the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ITC–ILO) in Turin, Italy. The program focused on Engineering Procurement, Contract Management, and Dispute Resolution for World Bank-funded projects, equipping participants with the tools to deliver projects that matter to millions of Nigerians.

The delegation included representatives from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and RAAMP’s Federal Project Management Unit, alongside State Project Coordinators and Director-Generals from Kaduna, Bauchi, Ogun, Ekiti, Gombe, Akwa Ibom, Adamawa, Sokoto, and Katsina States. This diverse team reflects RAAMP’s commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing across states.

The training combined expert-led lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, guided by Prof. Yusuf Saad and Ms. Esmerina Petutschnig. Participants explored World Bank procurement regulations, risk management, contract administration, and dispute resolution strategies, while applying these concepts through bid evaluations, risk allocation exercises, and contract management simulations.

This training couldn’t have come at a better time. It strengthens our ability to manage procurement and contracts effectively, ensuring transparency and value for money in RAAMP projects. With ILO’s support, we are building the skills that will make a real difference for rural communities in Nigeria.

Engr. Aminu B. Mohammed - RAAMP National Coordinator

Ms. Esmerina Petutschnig, Senior Training Specialist at ITC–ILO, added:
“Our goal is to empower RAAMP stakeholders with global best practices in procurement and contract management. This knowledge will help Nigeria deliver rural infrastructure projects that are inclusive, efficient, and aligned with international standards—ultimately improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development.”

Key outcomes include:

• Stronger technical capacity across RAAMP states
• Better collaboration and harmonization of procurement processes
• Alignment with global standards for contract management and dispute resolution
• Increased readiness for RAAMP’s scale-up phase

These gains will translate into better roads, improved market access, and stronger rural economies, benefiting farmers, traders, and communities nationwide.

Looking ahead, RAAMP plans to replicate similar training locally in February 2026 for State Procurement Officers and implementing partners—ensuring that knowledge cascades to every level of project delivery.

This mission marks a strategic milestone for RAAMP and its partners, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to transparent, efficient, and sustainable rural infrastructure development.