The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) recently inducted 141 public service staff members of the Lagos State Government, marking a significant step in strengthening the human resource capacity within the state’s public sector. The induction ceremony, themed “Resilient People, Responsive Service: Charting the Future of HR in the Public Service,” underscored the increasingly vital role of HR professionals in driving organizational effectiveness and transforming the public sector to meet the evolving demands of a dynamic environment. The event saw eight individuals achieve Full Membership status and 133 attain Associate Membership through the HR Practitioners route, solidifying their professional credentials and commitment to best practices in human resource management. This influx of qualified HR practitioners is expected to contribute significantly to the modernization and efficiency of the Lagos State public service.
The induction ceremony served as a platform to emphasize the significance of the CIPM designation and the responsibilities it carries. Ahmed Gobir, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, characterized the induction not merely as a conferment of titles but as a recognition of potential and a call to action. He emphasized that the CIPM lapel signifies a legal license to practice HR in Nigeria, underscoring the professional and ethical obligations inherent in the role. Gobir urged the inductees to actively engage in the CIPM community, participating in the HR Leadership Academy, branch events, and national programs like the CIPM International Conference and Exhibition, to further their professional development and contribute to the advancement of the HR profession. He stressed the need for resilience and responsiveness, particularly in navigating the complexities of the public sector, highlighting that true resilience is forged through challenges and perseverance.
The Lagos State Government, represented by high-ranking officials, expressed its strong support for the development of its HR workforce and recognized the crucial role HR plays in achieving its strategic objectives. Shuaheeb Agoro, the Head of Service, represented by Abosede George, Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Commission, emphasized the centrality of HR in organizational performance. George asserted that HR is the most critical department in any organization, as its effectiveness directly impacts the performance of all other departments. She challenged the newly inducted members to strive for excellence and leave a lasting positive impact on the Lagos State civil service, setting a high standard for future generations of HR professionals.
Bibilomo Olushekun, Permanent Secretary, Office of Local Governments, Establishments & Training, highlighted the pressing need for HR transformation in the face of rapid technological advancements, economic fluctuations, and rising public expectations. She underscored the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of the modern workplace, which demands digital HR solutions, agile teams, real-time service delivery, transparency, and accountability. Olushekun called upon HR practitioners to take the lead in reshaping policies, equipping staff with the necessary skills for the future, and fostering a culture of innovation within the public service.
Olushekun’s address underscored the potential consequences of clinging to outdated bureaucratic systems, which she argued breed inefficiency and public dissatisfaction. She emphasized that without a resilient and responsive HR function driving the transition to a more modern and effective public service, progress will be hindered. The inductees, therefore, have a critical role to play in facilitating this transformation and ensuring that the Lagos State public service remains relevant, efficient, and responsive to the needs of its citizens.
The induction of these 141 HR professionals represents a significant investment in the future of the Lagos State public service. By equipping these individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge, and by fostering a culture of resilience, responsiveness, and innovation, the state government is laying the groundwork for a more effective and efficient public sector capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century. The emphasis on continuous professional development and engagement with the CIPM community further reinforces the commitment to maintaining high standards and best practices within the HR profession, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Lagos State.
