Strengthening Procurement Planning through Effective Forecasting and Supply Planning in Yobe State

With technical assistance from the Health Procurement Africa (HPA) Programme—implemented by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and funded by the Gates Foundation—the Yobe State Drugs and Medical Consumables Management Agency (YODMA) has successfully concluded a three‑day workshop on quantification of essential medicines. The workshop was designed to strengthen YODMA’s procurement planning processes for the 2026–2027 procurement cycle.

Building Capacity for Data‑Driven Procurement

The workshop was led by Pharm. Jimmy Aiden, Technical Specialist with HPA, and supported by Olushina Olajide‑Ayoade, Programme Lead. Participants were guided through practical approaches to forecasting and supply planning, with a strong focus on aligning data, funding, and procurement decisions to improve medicine availability across the state.

In his opening remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Muhammad Lawan Gana, represented by the Executive Secretary of YODMA, Pharm. Abdul‑Aziz Garba Mohammed, emphasised the importance of quantification as a critical tool for ensuring the uninterrupted supply of lifesaving health products. He highlighted how effective forecasting supports strategic procurement planning, strengthens resource mobilisation, and ultimately improves health outcomes.

Key Outcomes from the Workshop

Over the course of the three days, participants achieved several important milestones, including:

• Development of a 24‑month forecast (April 2026 – March 2028) for essential medicines across pharmaceuticals, laboratory commodities, and consumables
• Strengthening YODMA’s capacity to independently lead future quantification exercises
• Identification of product and funding requirements for the full forecast period
• Incorporation of innovative, lifesaving products into the forecast, including calibrated drapes, heat‑stable carbetocin, and multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS)
• Institutionalisation of a quarterly forecast monitoring and review process, ensuring procurement decisions remain current, responsive, and data‑driven

These outcomes mark a significant advancement in YODMA’s ability to plan, prioritise, and deliver essential health commodities efficiently.

Strong Multi‑Sector Participation

The workshop brought together a broad group of stakeholders critical to the success of supply chain operations in Yobe State. In attendance were senior leaders and technical experts, including:

• Director of Pharmaceutical Services (Hospital Management Board, Yobe) – Pharm. Onyebuchi Onyenuche
• Director of Procurement, YODMA – Pharm. Muhammad Barau
• Director of Sales and Distribution, YODMA – Pharm. Musa Dauda
• Director of Production and Quality Assurance, YODMA – Modu Aji Kolo
• Deputy Director, Planning, Research & Statistics, YODMA – Idrissa Mohammed
• Programme officers from the State Ministry of Health and State Primary Healthcare Development Board
• Implementing partners from Malaria Consortium and Management Sciences for Health

This diverse participation ensured alignment across policy, procurement, service delivery, and partner implementation.

Investing in Professional Procurement Skills

In addition to the technical quantification sessions, the HPA team also engaged YODMA procurement professionals enrolled in the CIPS HPA Qualification Programme. One‑on‑one mentoring was provided to candidates working towards CIPS Level 2 and Level 6 (MCIPS) certification, reinforcing the link between professional procurement skills and effective public health supply chain management.

Looking Ahead

By strengthening forecasting, institutionalising regular reviews, and investing in professional capacity, YODMA is laying the groundwork for a more resilient, efficient, and equitable healthcare system in Yobe State—one informed decision at a time.

👏 We extend our sincere appreciation to the leadership of YODMA and all participants for their dedication, active engagement, and commitment throughout the exercise. Together, we are building a stronger foundation for health service delivery across the state.