CIPM Pushes Strategic Shift, Inducts 78 New Members

Human resource professionals must evolve from administrative functions to become strategic leaders driving business transformation, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) urged. The call came during the Institute's 71st Induction Ceremony, where 78 new members were welcomed into the profession.

Ahmed Gobir, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, highlighted the changing nature of work, emphasizing that HR leaders need to embrace innovation, professional excellence, and technology-driven solutions. He noted that the virtual format of the induction ceremony itself reflected the Institute's commitment to adaptability and innovation. "As HR professionals, we constantly advise organisations to be agile, innovative, and responsive to changing realities. At CIPM, we practise what we preach," Gobir remarked.

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As HR professionals, we constantly advise organisations to be agile, innovative, and responsive to changing realities. At CIPM, we practise what we preach. There was no need to keep HR professionals waiting, so we chose innovation over tradition.

Gobir described the inductees as "78 success stories," underscoring that their membership signifies more than just professional recognition. It comes with significant responsibilities related to ethics, credibility, and the imperative for continuous professional development. "You are receiving much more than a certificate. You are receiving professional recognition, credibility, a badge of trust, and greater responsibility," he stated.

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You are receiving much more than a certificate. You are receiving professional recognition, credibility, a badge of trust, and greater responsibility.

Keynote speaker Reverend Dr. Collins Edebiri challenged the new members to redefine their roles, becoming strategic partners in decision-making and business growth. He explained that the HR function has shifted from a support role to a critical business function responsible for shaping organizational performance. Modern HR professionals, Edebiri asserted, must cultivate capabilities in strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, data-driven decision-making, coaching, innovation, and ethical leadership to remain relevant.

Edebiri further elaborated that HR leaders are now instrumental in driving organizational culture, developing talent, supporting leadership growth, managing change, and improving workforce planning. "HR professionals are no longer merely custodians of policies but architects of organisational success," he concluded, pointing towards a future where HR professionals combine people management skills with strategic business acumen.

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HR professionals are no longer merely custodians of policies but architects of organisational success.