UPSKILLING IN THE ERA OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN THE BUREAU FOR PUBLIC PROCUREMENT, ABUJA, NIGERIA

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Author

               ¹Adogbo Victoria, 

Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences, National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria

    ¹[email protected]  09134375759

ABSTRACT 

Research Objective: This study investigated how digital transformation influences upskilling among staff of the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP), Abuja, Nigeria, focusing on e-procurement systems adoption, ICT infrastructure availability, process automation and reengineering, and cybersecurity and data governance.

Methodology: A quantitative survey research design was adopted, with structured questionnaires distributed both physically and electronically to BPP employees. Out of a population of 654, a sample of 248 respondents was determined using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Instrument reliability was confirmed with Cronbach’s alpha values exceeding 0.70. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 27, employing descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation to assess the relationships between digital transformation components and workforce upskilling.

Findings: The results revealed significant positive correlations between digital transformation indicators and upskilling. Cybersecurity and data governance showed the strongest influence on upskilling (r = 0.297, p < 0.01), followed by ICT infrastructure availability (r = 0.224, p < 0.01), process automation and reengineering (r = 0.206, p < 0.01), and e-procurement systems adoption (r = 0.140, p < 0.05). High adoption levels and strong engagement in digital skill development were observed.

Conclusion: Digital transformation is a key driver of workforce upskilling in public procurement, requiring ongoing investment in employee training and professional development to maintain efficiency and innovation.

Recommendations: The study recommends that BPP intensify training on internet-enabled procurement, enhance ICT infrastructure, and institutionalize continuous professional development to strengthen adaptability and sustain digital transformation momentum.

Keywords: E-Procurement, ICT Infrastructure, Process Automation, Cybersecurity, Upskilling. 

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