Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards

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IPESS is a Word Bank supported Center of Excellence with a core mandate of building sustainable human capacity in Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards.

11/08/2026

PePS HONOURS DR CHRISTOPHER ECHE

Having attained top level skills and knowledge and contributing immensely to the actualization of the set goals of the Pesticidal Plants Society of Nigeria (PePS), the society has conferred the status of a fellow on Dr Christopher O. Eche who is currently the Director, Institute of Food Security (IFS), and Deputy Director, Institute of Procurement Environmental and Social Standards ( IPESS), all of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi ( JOSTUM).

The IPESS Deputy Director received the honour during the investiture ceremony which was held at the University of Port Harcourt on Monday 10th August 2026.

The Pesticidal Plants Society of Nigeria is a professional organization focused on researching, developing, and promoting sustainable, plant-based pest control solutions to enhance food security, global health, and environmental safety.

The SPESSE project's Additional Financing (AF) Marathon is on as IPESS JOSTUM on 7th August, 2026 graduates yet another ...
07/08/2026

The SPESSE project's Additional Financing (AF) Marathon is on as IPESS JOSTUM on 7th August, 2026 graduates yet another batch of short course (Track A) participants totalling 385 in Abuja.

01/08/2026

IPESS JOSTUM is shaping the future of Procurement, environmental and social safeguards through human capacity development.
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IPESS JOSTUM GRADUATES OVER 2000 TRACK A PARTICIPANTS ACROSS NORTH CENTRAL STATES AS NASARAWA STATE GOVERNOR URGES GRADU...
01/08/2026

IPESS JOSTUM GRADUATES OVER 2000 TRACK A PARTICIPANTS ACROSS NORTH CENTRAL STATES AS NASARAWA STATE GOVERNOR URGES GRADUANDS TO CHAMPION EXCELLENCE

In separate graduation events, over 2000 short course (Track A) participants in Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi State on Friday 31st July 2026 received certificates of participation following the successful completion of the Track A training programme organized by the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS), Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM)

Delivering the keynote address in Lafia, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr Abdullahi A. Sule, represented by his Deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe commended participants’ willingness to dedicate time to professional development, despite the enormous responsibilities of their offices. The Governor stated that the occasion was not merely a graduation ceremony but also a celebration of excellence, leadership and collective commitment to building a more professional, competent and responsive public service in Nasarawa State.

According to Governor Sule, “the greatest asset of any government is neither its infrastructure nor its natural resources, but the quality of its human capital. Effective governance depends on competent, ethical and motivated public servants who possess the knowledge and skills required to respond to the increasingly complex demands of modern public administration.” He reiterated that capacity building remains one of the strategic priorities of his administration and he is committed to ensuring that the Nasarwa State workforce is equipped with contemporary knowledge, global best practices and innovative skills necessary to deliver efficient, transparent and people-centred governance. Governor Sule lauded the partnership between IPESS JOSTUM and the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, as well as the unwavering commitment of the Nasarawa State Head of Civil Service, Barrister Abigail Waya, to workforce development which culminated to the delivery and success of the programme in the state.

Engr Sule further encouraged graduands to become champions of excellence within their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies adding that as a government, his administration will continue to invest in the development of the state workforce recognizing that sustainable development is only possible when institutions are strengthened through capable and well-trained personnel.

The Center and Director IPESS JOSTUM, Prof. Lami A. Nnamonu during the welcome address stated that the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) Project was conceived to build a new generation of public sector professionals equipped with internationally recognized competencies in procurement, environmental standards, and social standards.

The Center Director thanked the Nasarawa State Government led by Engr Abdullahi A. Sule for the priority placed on human capital development in the state and asserted that the future of governance is not built merely on physical infrastructure, but on knowledgeable, ethical, and competent public servants who possess the skills to plan wisely, procure responsibly, protect the environment, safeguard communities, and deliver sustainable development outcomes. She added that the future of public service belongs to professionals who uphold integrity even when no one is watching, insist on transparency even when shortcuts appear easier, recognize that every procurement decision affects public trust, understand that every environmental decision affect generation yet unborn, and appreciate rights, & livelihoods of ordinary citizens.

Prof. Nnamonu expressed profound gratitude to the World Bank for its unwavering support and vision in strengthening public sector institutions across Nigeria through the SPESSE Project, the National Universities Commission for the uncommon coordination which continue to ensure the successful implementation of the project the Management of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University for the support enjoyed so far. She charged the graduands to apply the knowledge gained to better their places of work and the state at large. “Today, you receive certificates, but tomorrow, the citizens of Nasarawa State should receive better governance because of what you have learned here. As you return to your Ministries, Departments and Agencies, I encourage you to see yourselves not merely as government employees but as change agents, institution builders, and transformational leaders.” Prof. Nnamonu said.

In separate valedictory speeches, Caroline Manta, Anghir Francis and Deborah Pam of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards cohorts respectively stated that the training has empowered and equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive meaningful changes in their respective places of work. Caroline Manta while appreciating the facilitators and supporting staff for their uncommon dedication which culminated to the success of the programme also encouraged her fellow graduands to diligently and responsibly apply the knowledge gained in the service of their various organizations and communities for the good of the nation. The cohort representatives further commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for the initiative and praised the uncommon level of coordination and seamlessness in the delivery of the courses by IPESS JOSTUM, calling for the sustainability of the project.

During a presentation in Makurdi on the theme “Drivers of Change” the Standard Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of Environmental Standards, Dr Gabriel Yager enjoined graduands to courageously apply the knowledge and skills gained during the training to drive the needed positive change. Dr Yager Charged the graduands to be committed to promoting best practices by upholding integrity, professionalism, and patriotism. According to him, improving the quality of life of the people, as well as contributing to reducing the incidences of corruption and mismanagement of public resources, are the core responsibilities of the ordained agents of change. Dr Yager called on the graduands to sustain the already established relationship by responding to inquiries from the Institute and other implementing units, saying the training was the beginning of a lifelong journey.

Delivering the goodwill message in Makurdi, the Center Leader and Director, represented by the Academic Programme Coordinator of Environmental Standards, Prof. Ebenezer J. Ekefan on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, JOSTUM, Engr Professor I.N. Itodo congratulated the graduands for attaining the feat and urged them to uphold the experience and cherish their certificates as they could change their status. The Center Director stated that, by the virtue of the training, participants have become the ambassadors of the Institute, and their actions henceforth must reflect the core values of the training. He urged the graduands to sustain their quest for knowledge by applying for higher levels of study available at the Institute.

‎SPESSE FUAM POSTGRADUATE ADMISSIONS FOR 2026/2027 ACADEMIC SESSION ARE NOW OPEN‎The Institute of Procurement, Environme...
24/07/2026

‎SPESSE FUAM POSTGRADUATE ADMISSIONS FOR 2026/2027 ACADEMIC SESSION ARE NOW OPEN

‎The Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS), Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM) invites qualified candidates to apply for its SPESSE Postgraduate Programmes for the 2026/2027 Academic Session.

‎Available Programmes:
‎🎓 PhD

* Environmental Sustainability
* Procurement Management
* Sustainable Social Development

‎🎓 MSc

* Environmental Sustainability
* Procurement Management
* Sustainable Social Development

‎🎓 PGD

* Environmental Sustainability
* Procurement Management
* Sustainable Social Development

‎Application Deadline: 31st August 2026 (11:59 PM)

‎📝 Apply Now:
https://ipess.jostumservices.com/APPLICANT/ADMISSIONS/

‎📞 For Enquiries:
‎+234 706 565 9336
‎+234 703 055 9716
‎+234 703 517 9215

IPESS DEPUTY DIRECTOR RECEIVES MANTLE OF LEADERSHIP AS IFS DIRECTOROn Monday July 13, 2026, the Deputy Director of the I...
13/07/2026

IPESS DEPUTY DIRECTOR RECEIVES MANTLE OF LEADERSHIP AS IFS DIRECTOR

On Monday July 13, 2026, the Deputy Director of the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS) at the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM), Dr Christopher O. Eche took charge as the new director of the Institute of Food Security following his appointment by the Vice Chancellor of JOSTUM Engr Prof. Isaac N. Itodo.

Receiving the handover notes, the new director congratulated the outgoing Director of the Institute, Prof. Oto J. Okwu for his immense contribution geared towards moving the Institute forward. Dr Eche thanked his predecessor and the entire staff of the institute for their show of commitment and dedication stating that his tenure will consolidate on the visible achievements of Prof. Okwu and sued for sustained support from all concerned to enable him to succeed in his new assignment.

Following a facility walkthrough, Dr Eche promised to make concerted efforts towards turning the fortunes of the Institute around. He charged the staff of the Institute to remain committed and innovative as they work together for the actualisation of set goals.

The outgoing Director, Prof. Oto J. Okwu also congratulated Dr Christopher Eche on his new role and stated that his successor was a perfect choice for the assignment owing to his dedication and glaring footprints in the University and beyond. Prof. Oto thanked the University management led by Engr Prof. Isaac N. Itodo for giving him the privilege to serve in that capacity and pledged his relentless support where needed to enable the new Director to take off smoothly. He appreciated the staff of the institute for the unflinching support he enjoyed while serving as director and encouraged them to extend even more to the new director for the growth and development of the institute and the university at large.

WE ARE READY TO LEARN AND IMPROVE: JOSTUM VC TELLS SPESSE VERIFICATION AGENTSThe Vice Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka...
22/06/2026

WE ARE READY TO LEARN AND IMPROVE: JOSTUM VC TELLS SPESSE VERIFICATION AGENTS

The Vice Chancellor of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), Engr Prof. Isaac N. Itodo, has expressed willingness to accept and improve on the observations and recommendations of Binomial Optimus Limited – an Independent Third-Party Verification Agency (ITPVA) deployed to the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS) by the World Bank for the 8th round verification exercise of the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) project’s

The Vice Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof. Elizabeth Kembe, disclosed this in his conference room when members of the ITPVA, in the company of the management team of the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS), paid him a courtesy visit on June 22, 2026.

Engr Prof. Itodo thanked the Binomial Optimus Limited team for the visit as well as IPESS JOSTUM’s team for flying the flag of the university high through the attainment of tremendous milestones in executing the SPESSE project. The Vice Chancellor further expressed confidence in the preparedness of the IPESS JOSTUM team and called on the verification agents to feel free and safe, saying observations and recommendations emanating from the verification exercise will be taken and improved upon for the benefit of all.

In her remarks, the Center Leader and Director, Prof. Lami A. Nnamonu, PMP, stated that IPESS JOSTUM has constantly stood tall in previous verification exercises and ratings of the SPESSE project. She asserted that the institute earned the top spot as the highest-earning Center of Excellence during the last World Bank mission – a reflection of the institute's commitment, dedication and hard work in actualising set targets of the SPESSE project. Prof. Nnamonu encouraged the verification agents not to decline any suggestion for improvement for the betterment of the institute.

Earlier, the leader of the Independent Third-Party Verification Agency, Emmanuel Ikenna, appreciated IPESS JOSTUM for the warm reception and congratulated them for achieving greater results in previous outings. Emmanuel Ikenna stated that the 5-day verification exercise was meant to verify claims made by the institute and recommend possible areas of improvement in line with the guidelines of the SPESSE project.

On his part, a representative of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dauda Nehemiah, on behalf of the Director, Special Projects at the NUC, Dr Joshua Atah, commended IPESS JOSTUM for standing tall in the ex*****on of the SPESSE project. Dauda Nehemiah stated that exercises of this nature aim to improve existing conditions rather than witch-hunt. He added that the team's visit aimed to ensure the achievement of the SPESSE project's goals for everyone's benefit.

JOSTUM GOVERNING COUNCIL RATES IPESS HIGH: SUES FOR SUSTAINED COMMITMENT.The Governing Council of the Joseph Sarwuan Tar...
18/06/2026

JOSTUM GOVERNING COUNCIL RATES IPESS HIGH: SUES FOR SUSTAINED COMMITMENT.

The Governing Council of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), has expressed satisfaction with the infrastructural and educational tools provided by the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS) to support teaching and learning at the institute and the University at large.

The highest policy-making body of JOSTUM, led by the Vice Chancellor, Engr Prof. Isaac N. Itodo, bared their feelings during a strategic visit to the institute on June 17, 2026.

Speaking after a facility walkthrough, Aminu Lawal Othman commended the camaraderie between JOSTUM and IPESS management, which has yielded tremendous progress in the University. The council member stated that a good leader paves the way for progress, and the dynamic leadership style of the Center Leader and Director, Prof. Lami A. Nnamonu, PMP, is a shining example for all to emulate. Aminu Lawal Othman, who affirmed the positive feedback of IPESS JOSTUM alumni, further charged the IPESS team to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence and greater feats.

Dr Mohammed Adamu Kwankwaso and Engr AB Nda-Isaiah, in separate remarks, also commended the undeniable impact of IPESS on the University saying they were impressed with what they met on ground. Dr Mohammed Adamu described Engr Prof. Isaac Itodo as a perfect gentleman who is always working for the good of his subjects. He sued for unity of purpose between IPESS and the University to enable them to sustain the project and attain set targets.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, JOSTUM, Engr Prof. Isaac Itodo, thanked the Council members for providing the necessary support for his administration to thrive. The Vice Chancellor also expressed confidence in the leadership of the institute and pledged his administration’s unflinching support to enable the institute to surpass set targets.

The Center Leader and Director, Prof. Lami A. Nnamonu, PMP, in her preliminary address stated that the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards Enhancement (SPESSE) project is a pilot project in Nigeria, and IPESS JOSTUM is responsible for the development of sustainable human capacity in the areas of procurement, environmental and social standards in north central Nigeria. Prof. Nnamonu asserted that IPESS JOSTUM was the first among its counterparts to train in all the states within its catchment area and has constantly retained the top spot during independent third-party verification assessments.

She commended the Engr Prof. Isaac Itodo-led administration for their constant support, which has culminated in the achievement of glaring milestones at the institute. The Center Director while thanking the council members for the august visit, promised to continue to give her all for the success of the project, adding that their inspiring words will spur her to do more.

IPESS JOSTUM INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME EXTREMELY IMPACTFUL: STUDENTS RECOUNT RWANDA EXPERIENCEEighteen exceptiona...
16/06/2026

IPESS JOSTUM INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME EXTREMELY IMPACTFUL: STUDENTS RECOUNT RWANDA EXPERIENCE

Eighteen exceptional postgraduate students in the departments of Procurement Management, Environmental Sustainability, and Sustainable Social Development at the Institute of Procurement, Environmental, and Social Standards (IPESS), Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM) have recounted their experiences on their return from the international student exchange programme to Kigali, Rwanda - a country renowned for its post-genocide recovery, economic growth, and commitment to education.

For Pleroma Ugwu, Ungwa Aondover, Kuburat Bakare, Atser Torkuma and many others, it was both a challenge and an opportunity - to not just learn, but to return as visionaries ready to contribute to Africa’s progress.

This remarkable journey began with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between JOSTUM and the University of Kigali, laying the foundation for a partnership that has evolved into a vibrant platform for academic collaboration, student mobility, and institutional exchange.

The groundbreaking student exchange programme, conducted in partnership with the University of Kigali, was to expose participants to new cultures, innovative academic approaches, and alternative models of community development. Through classroom learning, industry engagements, field visits, and interactions with practitioners and policymakers, participants gained valuable insights into Rwanda’s achievements in sustainable public procurement, climate resilience, environmental conservation, ethical sourcing, and inclusive development.

In contrast to more conventional exchange programmes, the IPESS JOSTUM approach teaches students how social development, environmental stewardship, and procurement all work together to promote inclusive and sustainable progress.

To Ugwu Pleroma Chioma of MSc. Environmental Sustainability, this experience broadened her perspectives, deepened her academic knowledge, and honed her soft skills-qualities essential for effective leadership and understanding of various concepts.
“The exchange programme was a very enriching and memorable experience for me. It gave me the opportunity to learn in a very practical way, outside the usual classroom setting. Through lectures, institutional visits, field excursions, and group activities, I gained a deeper understanding of how sustainability is being applied in real development processes. One thing that really stood out for me was how Rwanda has been intentional in connecting environmental protection, governance, and economic development in a way that is practical and visible.” Ugwu Pleroma added that visiting different institutions and projects helped her to better understand concepts such as sustainable procurement, environmental governance, ecosystem restoration, local sourcing, and public sector development. These, according to her, were no longer just academic ideas; they became real and easy to relate to.

Ungwa Aondover, David Serah and Kuburat Bakare of Procurement Management, submitted that the benefits of the exchange programme extend far beyond individual participants and pledged to become ambassadors of change, sharing their newly acquired knowledge and perspectives with peers, faculty, and local communities.

“To me, and I believe to many who have benefited from this opportunity, the student exchange programme is an ample opportunity that unveils to students hands-on experience on sustainable practices in the areas of procurement, social development and environmental sustainability in an integrated fashion. During this programme I was exposed to unmatched e-procurement platform enforced by the government of Rwanda, where procurement activities/ processes are tracked in real time to ensure transparency, accountability, and overall improvement in governance, bearing in mind that procurement occupies a major percentage of government budget.” Ungwa Aondover said.

Others like Edu Rosemary and Atser Torkuma, of the Department of Sustainable Social Development found the student exchange programme to be informative and as an opportunity for them to learn the tenets of participatory governance as practiced in Rwanda where citizens are actively involved in decision-making processes from the grassroots to the state and federal levels. They called on the Nigerian State to emulate Rwanda. “Nigeria has good policies, but implementation, enforcement, and monitoring are areas where we fall short. Appropriate measures should be taken to address these challenges.” Atser Torkuma wrote.

With this cohort, IPESS JOSTUM has now successfully supported a total of 32 students through overseas exchange courses, thus bolstering its position as a centre of excellence for globally relevant and practice-oriented education.

The international student exchange programme between IPESS JOSTUM and the University of Kigali is a great example of how African universities may collaborate to generate future-ready leaders. By focusing on the personal and professional development of its students, IPESS JOSTUM is preparing the ground for a new generation of innovators, problem-solvers and changemakers who will define the future of Africa. And as these students head home, they carry with them not only academic accomplishments, but a new sense of purpose and the drive to make a difference.

What is obvious as Africa’s future emerges is that leadership is not about position; it’s about passion, perspective, and the capacity to spark change-traits. IPESS JOSTUM is cultivating one student at a time.

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Engineering Complex, Federal University Of Agriculture
Makurdi

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