The South-West Zone of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) recently hosted a significant public lecture themed “Leadership Acumen: A Panacea for Organizational Effectiveness in Turbulent Times.” The event, which took place online via Zoom, brought together professionals and experts from various fields to discuss the critical role of effective leadership in navigating organizations through uncertain and challenging environments.
Engr. Sean Olabode Badiru, MCIPM, Chairman of CIPM, South-West Zone, delivered the welcome address, expressing his profound pleasure and sense of responsibility in hosting the event.
He said “Leadership acumen isn’t just about possessing a title or occupying a corner office; it’s about embodying a set of qualities and competencies that inspire, empower, and guide teams towards shared goals, especially during tumultuous periods. In times of uncertainty, when the winds of change blow fiercely, it is the caliber of leadership that determines whether an organization falters or flourishes.”
He emphasized the importance of effective leadership in today’s rapidly changing business landscape, highlighting the need for leaders to possess exceptional acumen to guide organizations through turbulent times successfully.
Engr. Badiru further said “As leaders, it is crucial that we look beyond the obstacles right in front of us, painting a vivid picture of what lies ahead, igniting hope and confidence in our team. We must be resilient, bouncing back from setbacks with determination, always ready to adapt and innovate in the face of constant change. It’s also essential that we listen intently always, understand the fears and concerns of our team members, and foster inclusivity, especially during uncertain times.”
Mr. Olusegun Mojeed, FCIPM, President & Chairman of the Governing Council, CIPM, delivered remarks underscoring the selfless responsibility of leadership. He emphasized that leadership is about serving others and taking personal responsibility for building and nurturing teams.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Oladele Balogun, MCIPM, a distinguished academic and former Dean of Arts at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, delivered a compelling presentation on the intricacies of leadership acumen amidst turbulent circumstances. He underscored the critical role of effective leadership in steering organizations through tumultuous periods. “Turbulence demands leaders who can make tough decisions, inspire motivation, and provide unwavering support,” he remarked. Emphasizing the attributes of leadership acumen, he cited visionary thinking, emotional intelligence, strategic decision-making, effective communication, adaptability, and integrity as essential components.
The public lecture also featured discussions led by Dr. Morakinyo Oloyede, HR Director at Globacom Ltd, and Edith Nwankwo, a former chairman of CIPM, Ogun State Branch. They provided valuable insights into enhancing leadership proficiency and optimizing organizational efficiency through strategies such as leadership development programs, mentoring, coaching, and practical experiences.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from attendees to embrace the challenges of leadership joyfully and responsibly, with a shared vision of fostering resilience, adaptability, and lasting organizational success.
