In a powerful display of unity, prominent Nigerian political figures Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Professor Yemi Osinbajo have issued a compelling challenge to human resource professionals across the nation. Their message: take center stage in shaping an ethical, technologically adept workforce capable of driving Nigeria's future growth.
The call came during the prestigious 55th International Conference of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), where both leaders emphasized the critical role HR must play in national development.
A Unified Vision for Workforce Transformation
Professor Osinbajo, delivering his address virtually, didn't mince words about the urgency of the situation. "We are at a critical juncture where the skills of today are rapidly becoming obsolete," he stated. The Vice President emphasized that HR leaders must become architects of change, proactively developing talent strategies that anticipate future industry needs rather than simply reacting to current demands.
He particularly highlighted the growing importance of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital literacy across all sectors of the economy. "The HR professional of tomorrow must be equipped to navigate these technological disruptions while maintaining strong ethical foundations," Osinbajo added.
Tinubu's Emphasis on Ethical Leadership
Asiwaju Tinubu, represented by former Ogun State Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel, echoed similar sentiments while placing additional emphasis on moral compass. "Technical skills without ethical grounding are like a ship without a rudder," he analogized.
Tinubu stressed that HR professionals serve as the conscience of their organizations, responsible for instilling values that promote transparency, accountability, and social responsibility. "You are the guardians of corporate integrity in Nigeria," he told the assembled HR leaders.
The Digital Imperative for Nigerian Businesses
Both leaders agreed that the acceleration of digital transformation post-pandemic has created both challenges and opportunities for Nigerian businesses. They urged HR professionals to:
- Develop comprehensive digital literacy programs for existing employees
- Re-evaluate recruitment strategies to prioritize adaptability and learning agility
- Create continuous learning environments that support skill development throughout employees' careers
- Establish ethical frameworks that guide technology adoption and usage
The conference, themed 'Shape the Future: Innovate, Collaborate, Transform,' brought together thousands of HR professionals committed to elevating their impact on Nigerian businesses and the broader economy.
As Nigeria positions itself for economic recovery and sustainable growth, the messages from Tinubu and Osinbajo underscore that human resource development isn't merely an organizational concern—it's a national imperative that will determine the country's competitive edge in the coming decades.
