A Critical Evaluation of Procurement Frameworks and Best Practices in Nigeria’s TETFund Projects.

Abstract

Public procurement plays a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and cost-efficiency in public sector governance. In Nigeria, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) finances infrastructure and academic development in tertiary institutions, yet many projects still experience delays, cost overruns, and compliance irregularities. This study examined the influence of procurement frameworks on the adoption of best procurement practices in TETFund-funded projects in selected federal tertiary institutions in North Central Nigeria. A mixed-methods research design was adopted. Data were collected from 240 procurement officers, project managers, bursary officials, and internal auditors, yielding 214 valid responses (89.2% response rate). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that procurement compliance significantly improves project quality and contractor selection ($\beta = 0.312$, $p = 0.004$). Procurement planning positively influenced project timeliness and cost control ($\beta = 0.276$, $p = 0.011$), while transparency mechanisms enhanced accountability and reduced contract inflation ($\beta = 0.341$, $p = 0.002$). Monitoring and evaluation emerged as the strongest predictor of value-for-money outcomes ($\beta = 0.428$, $p = 0.001$). Institutional procurement capacity also significantly improved implementation efficiency and regulatory compliance ($\beta = 0.295$, $p = 0.006$). The study concludes that digital procurement integration and enforcement capability are critical to effective procurement performance. It recommends mandatory e-procurement systems, professional training, and performance-based evaluation frameworks to strengthen accountability and value-for-money outcomes in TETFund projects.