Why requisition matters to a first-time founder
A requisition creates a record of need before money is committed. Even a small company can use a simple approval step to prevent duplicate tools, surprise spending or purchases from unvetted suppliers. The process should match the risk and value, rather than delaying every low-cost item with unnecessary paperwork.
Examples of requisition
A team member requests three laptops costing ₦3.6 million and explains who needs them, the required specification and preferred supplier. The operations lead checks the budget and security requirements, then approves the requisition. Procurement can now place the order with a clear record of who authorised the spend.
Common misunderstanding
A requisition is not a purchase order or an invoice. It is an internal request for approval. A purchase order is sent to a supplier to place the authorised order, while an invoice is the supplier’s request for payment after or around delivery.
When to use it
Use requisitions when purchases need budget, security, legal or management approval before commitment. Set thresholds and required information so the process stays proportionate. An urgent request should still record the reason and approval; urgency should not become a routine way to bypass responsible controls.