CIPM Ogun State’s decade conference champions digital transformation

Marking a milestone, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, Ogun State Branch hosted its 10th Annual Conference, themed “Re-imagine HR,” a gathering that attracted HR professionals, industry leaders, and experts from across Nigeria. The three-day event offered insights into the future of HR amid Nigeria’s evolving business landscape, with a special focus on digital transformation, people analytics, and career advancement within both the public and private sectors.

CIPM President Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, commended the Ogun State branch for its dedication to advancing professional development, emphasizing the need for HR to adopt forward-thinking practices. “HR is evolving beyond traditional roles to become innovation-driven and agile, meeting the dynamic needs of today’s workforce,” Gobir remarked, encouraging participants to reimagine HR as resilient, inclusive, and aligned with modern challenges.

Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, Ogun State Head of Service, delivered a keynote address that underscored the conference theme, “Re-imagine HR,” highlighting the critical need for HR to embrace digital tools and innovation to remain relevant in today’s fast-evolving work environments. Onasanya emphasized that HR’s role has expanded beyond administrative functions to become a pivotal driver of organizational strategy and growth, calling on HR professionals to adopt forward-looking practices that enhance efficiency, employee engagement, and adaptability. He urged attendees to lead the transformation in HR, blending traditional values with technological advancements to build a resilient workforce that meets the demands of a competitive global market.

Engr. Sean Olabode Badiru, MCIPM, Chairman of CIPM Ogun State, delivered an impactful session on “HR in the Digital Age: A Roadmap for Success.” Badiru highlighted the importance of HR as a strategic partner deeply integrated across all departments, from Operations to Sales and Finance, where HR decisions can significantly elevate team performance. He emphasized that effective digital transformation in HR requires not just the adoption of technology but a structured approach: understanding business goals, forming cross-functional teams, developing risk and financial plans, and securing stakeholder support. Badiru urged HR leaders to utilize digital tools—such as AI-driven recruitment, real-time performance tracking, and workforce analytics—to align HR functions with business objectives and foster agile, data-driven decision-making that is continuously evaluated and adjusted for sustained impact.

The conference also featured a range of expert speakers. Mr. Dele Ogunyale, ACIPM, presented “Data-Driven HR: Leveraging People Analytics for Informed Decisions,” focusing on key HR metrics, such as employee engagement, diversity indexes, and predictive attrition rates. He emphasized that HR professionals must be data-literate to drive informed decision-making and optimize organizational performance. Addressing the volatility of Nigeria’s business environment, Mr. Henry Unuakpor, MCIPM who presented on “Managing Change and Resilience,” discussed the concept of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) and newer frameworks such as BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-Linear, and Incomprehensible) to describe the increasingly unpredictable landscape. He recommended proactive change management, agile business models, and strong leadership to navigate these challenges, citing successful examples from Nigerian companies.

Mrs. Bola Onime, MCIPM, shed light on “Employee Wellbeing and Mental Health Support,” stressing the need for HR to create open channels where employees feel safe expressing their challenges. She advocated for employee assistance programs, flexible work options, and stress management policies, and highlighted the importance of regular mental health awareness initiatives to promote workplace wellness.

Career development in the public sector was a key theme in Mr. Jamiu Abiodun Awe, MCIPM’s presentation, where he underscored the need for continuous learning, mentorship, and skills diversification in navigating public service roles. Awe highlighted how upskilling, reskilling, and cross-skilling can overcome the unique challenges faced by HR professionals in the public sector, providing tools for growth and adaptability.

Other distinguished speakers at the conference include Prof. Oladele Balogun, MCIPM, Pastor Julius Olalekan, MCIPM, Mr. Enahoro Okhae, Pastor Rotimi Adegborioye, FCIPM, Mr. Jide Ologun, ACIPM, and Dr. Olutunde Olukoga, ACIPM.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of notable individuals and organizations who have contributed significantly to HR and societal growth. Honourees included Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Governor of Ogun State; Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God; and prominent companies such as Nestlé Nigeria PLC, GZ Industries Limited, Rite Foods Ltd., Dufil Prima Foods Ltd., and Intercontinental Distillers Ltd.

The conference planning committee, led by Mrs. Bertina Bamgbose, MCIPM, was appreciated for their meticulous efforts in organizing this landmark event, which left attendees inspired and committed to transforming HR practices in Nigeria.

As the conference concluded, attendees expressed a renewed commitment to transforming HR practices in Nigeria. The event reinforced CIPM Ogun State Branch’s role in equipping HR professionals with the tools to drive meaningful change, fostering a resilient, data-driven, and innovative HR landscape in Nigeria.