A human resource professional, Ide Owodiong-Idemekong, has urged Nigerians to embrace effective talent management to unleash a generation of workers capable of transforming the economy.
Owodiong-Idemekong made this call during a keynote address at the Human Resources (HR) Fusion Series organised by Jobberman Nigeria in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
He outlined the five strategic pillars of effective talent management to include aligning HR with business goals, attracting the right talent, developing and empowering employees, driving engagement and retention, and leveraging technology and data.
Owodiong-Idemekong, who stressed the importance of embracing talent management as a driver of transformation, said: “If we in Akwa Ibom, and indeed Nigeria, embrace effective talent management, we will unleash a generation of workers and leaders who will transform our businesses, our communities, and our economy.”
In his address at the event, Head of Marketing at Jobberman Nigeria, Babajide Anjorin, reaffirmed the company’s commitment, saying: “HR Fusion represents our commitment to bridging the talent gap across Nigeria. By bringing this initiative to Akwa Ibom, we are empowering the silent architects of business growth. And as we work together, let us remember this truth: business growth does not happen in boardrooms; it happens when people are effectively managed, motivated, and retained.” Anjorin added that the event reflects Jobberman Nigeria’s evolution from an online career platform into a full-service talent solutions provider.
“Today, Jobberman partners with organisations to deliver end-to-end recruitment support, employer branding, soft skills training, and workforce capacity building, equipping HR professionals with strategies and networks to make talent management a driver of sustainable growth,” he assured.
He pledged Jobberman’s commitment to expanding HR development programmes beyond traditional commercial centres and to bringing world-class talent management expertise to emerging business hubs across Nigeria.
The event also featured four breakout sessions focused on practical HR challenges: Upskilling and Reskilling the Workforce for the Future; Employee Engagement and its Impact on Productivity; Building a Culture of Talent Retention; and Fostering Inclusive Workplaces for Sustainable Business Success.
In their reactions, participants highlighted the programme’s relevance as Akwa Ibom diversifies its economy beyond oil and gas into agriculture, ICT, creative industries, and tourism, creating growing demand for adaptable and skilled workers.
Imaobong Ofana, a HR manager, applauded the initiative, saying: “This programme has been eye-opening. The sessions gave me practical ideas I can implement immediately in my organisation. It’s encouraging to see Jobberman bringing this level of expertise to Akwa Ibom. More importantly, Jobberman must continue to harness the great talent we have here, train and empower them, and work closely with HR bodies to build a stronger workforce for the future.”
The programme, with the theme ‘Effective Talent Management for Business Growth,’ was designed to support business growth and talent management in Akwa Ibom State. It brought together HR professionals, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to address critical talent management challenges and explore opportunities shaping the future.
