Dear Esteemed Members
Happy New Year! 🎉
As we bid farewell to 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey we have travelled together. This year, we soared to new heights – and I am not just talking about the height of our ambition but the true, tangible milestones we achieved as an Institute.
First off, let’s talk about our crowning glory for 2024: the 56th International Conference and Exhibition (ICE), the largest HR event in Africa! Against all odds and economic hurdles, you proved once again that nothing can hold back the passion and dedication of CIPM members. With 2,820 physical attendees and 620 virtual participants, this was more than just a conference – it was a testament to the power of our collective commitment. A huge thank you to each one of you for making it an unforgettable experience. You didn’t just attend; you made it a personal mission to ensure its success. So, as the saying goes, “If you want to soar, you’ve got to be willing to fly.” And fly, we did!
2024 also saw a remarkable recognition for me personally—being conferred with the Fellow of the National Institute for Labour Studies (FNLI) title. This is not just my honour but a recognition of all that we have achieved together as a community. Our collective accomplishments are what put CIPM on the map—global map, no less—and I am immensely proud to represent this outstanding Institute in this way.
And that’s not all—hold your applause! We officially inaugurated the CIPM USA Branch—yes, you heard that right! This marks a new chapter in our global reach. We are now spreading our wings further, establishing a leadership presence in human resource management across the world. CIPM is no longer just a Nigerian name; it is a global force!
The Jigawa State branch of CIPM was also officially inaugurated, marking a significant step in expanding professional people management across Nigeria. This milestone reflects our commitment to excellence and opens new opportunities for collaboration, capacity-building, and the promotion of best HR practices in the northern region. It strengthens CIPM’s presence and empowers organisations and individuals in Jigawa to optimise human potential and drive sustainable development.
On the African continent, I had the honour of joining the Africa Human Resources Confederation (AHRC) board, continuing our Institute’s influence across Africa. We’re not just leaders in Nigeria; we’re setting the standard for HR excellence across the continent.
Women In Tech
Women in Tech – we didn’t just talk about it, we acted. Partnering with Utiva, we set in motion free tech training for 2,000 women across Nigeria. This is a game-changer, and as we elevate the workforce, it is inspiring to see young women rise and take charge of their future.
This year, we reached a significant milestone by signing a Mutual Recognition of Membership agreement with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the United Kingdom. This partnership reinforces our commitment to establishing CIPM as a globally recognised professional body in HR management.
But we’re not stopping there—just as a good HR professional never settles for ‘good enough.’ We are actively ensuring these partnerships remain strong, seeking to build lasting relationships with HR bodies across the globe. We are creating a future full of opportunities for our members to grow and thrive internationally.
In addition, one of the key achievements this year was the updating of member profiles, alongside the digitalisation and automation of our processes, making it easier for our members to stay engaged and experience a seamless interaction with CIPM.
For the first time in history, we hosted an induction ceremony in Abia State, welcoming 162 new members through the Practitioners and Executive routes into the CIPM family. This groundbreaking event in the South East proves that no region is too distant, no challenge too great. Our reach is truly boundless. Furthermore, we also held the inaugural induction in Abuja, where over 250 new members were welcomed into the CIPM family, again through the Practitioners and Executive routes.
A Seat at the Table, A Voice for Change – Championing Nigeria’s Talent Future
A Legacy of Excellence – Inducted into PSIN Hall of Fame for Transformative Leadership
I was also honoured with a prestigious induction into the Hall of Fame at the esteemed Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN). This remarkable recognition celebrates our exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication and transformative contributions to the fields of people management and public service in Nigeria.
For CIPM, this milestone is a resounding testament to our influence and relevance as the foremost professional body for human resource management in the country. It amplifies our voice on the national stage, reinforces our credibility, and inspires us to continue shaping the future of Nigeria’s workforce with excellence and innovation.
Our partnerships also continue to grow, especially with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS). These collaborations open new doors for CIPM, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of HR and People Management both in Nigeria and beyond.
These accomplishments reflect the power of unity and shared purpose.
As we look ahead to 2025, I am filled with excitement for what we can achieve together. In 2024, we soared high—but in 2025, I believe we can take things even further. This is our year to elevate the Institute to even greater heights. Our vision is clear, and with your continued commitment, the sky is the limit. Let us build on these successes to ensure CIPM continues to lead HR and People Management, both nationally and globally.
Remember: “The only way is up!” So let us lift each other higher, strengthen our bonds, and continue to create a legacy that will echo for years to come.
Together, we can soar even higher. Together, we will make 2025 a year of unparalleled achievements for CIPM!
Happy New Year once again, and let’s make this year our best yet.
Long live CIPM!
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Yours in leadership and service,
Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli
President and Chairman of the Governing Council
