The 2025 HR Conference and Excellence Awards (HRCEA 2025), organised by HR Talent Hub and sponsored by MIVA Open University, has stressed the importance of human resources as a strategic driver of organisational success and workforce transformation in Nigeria.

This was disclosed at a two-day conference, which brought together human resources leaders, industry experts, and professionals from within and outside the country to discuss the future of work and the evolving role of HR in shaping business performance and organisational culture.

Speaking on the impact of the event, Founder and Lead Consultant of HR Talent Hub, Dr. Omotola Dayo-Adedapo, said the conference theme, “HR – The Heart of Business Success: Driving Purpose, People, and Performance,” reflects the expanding responsibility of HR professionals to operate at the intersection of organisational purpose and measurable performance.

She described the conference as “phenomenal, exquisite, and transformational,” noting that the lineup of local and international speakers was designed to inspire innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking across the profession.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of a ₦1,000,000 professional development cash grant to an HR practitioner, an initiative organisers said was aimed at promoting continuous learning and professional advancement within the sector.

The grant was awarded live on stage to Tijani Ogbuade, who said the recognition represented more than financial support.

“I didn’t just win money; I’ve gained momentum. This support removes barriers to my career growth and gives me the confidence to pursue opportunities I’ve had to postpone. It’s more than financial, it is belief in the value of my development.”

According to organisers, the grant initiative was intentionally designed as an investment in professional capacity rather than a ceremonial reward, reflecting the increasing demands placed on HR practitioners amid digital transformation and changing workplace dynamics.

In addition to the grant, the conference provided free professional headshots to 100 career professionals to support personal branding and professional visibility, highlighting the growing importance of identity and positioning in the modern HR landscape.

The development grant was made possible through the support of MIVA Open University, the headline sponsor of the conference. Dr. Dayo-Adedapo said the partnership reinforced the role of accessible education and industry collaboration in strengthening long-term professional capacity.

“This initiative goes beyond recognition. It is about unlocking potential and equipping HR professionals with the resources they need to lead with confidence and impact.”

Vice Chancellor of MIVA Open University, Professor Tayo Arulogun, led the official presentation of the cheque and emphasised the importance of initiatives that bridge academic learning with professional development.