Not just as the President of our great Institute, but as someone who deeply understands and appreciates the weight, beauty, sacrifice and impact of the work you do every single day.

Today is International HR Day, and while the world celebrates the profession, I choose to celebrate the people behind the profession — YOU.

The HR professional who stays back to resolve workplace conflicts long after others have gone home.

The HR professional who sees potential where others see limitations.

The HR professional who carries the emotions of employees while still protecting the goals of the organisation.

The HR professional who keeps people going, even when no one notices who keeps HR going.

Truth be told, HR professionals are the “humans” in Human Resources.

You recruit talent, but beyond that, you restore confidence.

You manage performance, but beyond that, you manage hope.

You handle people, but more importantly, you handle purpose. And perhaps that is why HR remains one profession where the real KPI is not just productivity, but humanity.

As we commemorate this year’s International HR Day with the theme, “Empower People to Lead Change,” I am reminded that real change does not begin in systems or structures. It begins with people. And people become empowered when there are professionals like you who choose every day to listen, support, guide, develop, encourage and lead.

You are the calm in organisational chaos.

The bridge between management and employees.

The voice of empathy in rooms filled with pressure and targets. You may not always be celebrated loudly, but your impact echoes daily in every thriving workplace.

As part of activities commemorating this special day, the Institute is hosting the Heads of Service of the 36 States and the FCT, alongside Permanent Secretaries from across the country. For me, this is deeply symbolic. It reflects how far our profession has come and the growing recognition that strong institutions can only be built through effective people management.

Indeed, HR is no longer sitting at the table quietly. HR is helping to shape the future of the table itself.

I also encourage you to participate actively in the various activities organised across our Branches nationwide as we celebrate this remarkable profession together.

Today, I simply want to say thank you.

Thank you for choosing a profession that demands both strength and softness.

Thank you for leading change with courage and compassion.

Thank you for carrying people along while carrying organisational goals forward.

Happy International HR Day to you!

Please celebrate yourself today. You deserve it.

Warm Regards,

Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli

President and Chairman of the Governing Council

Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM

The post Dear HR Professional, Today Is About You! appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

The circular, issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) with Ref. No. HCSF/3065/Vol.1/230 and dated May 14, 2026, establishes mandatory professional certification requirements for officers occupying Human Resource roles within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government.

According to the circular signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, MCIPM, the policy forms part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism, competence, ethical standards, and service delivery within the Federal Civil Service.

The circular specifically recognises certifications obtained from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) alongside a limited number of globally recognised HR professional bodies, thereby reinforcing CIPM’s position as Nigeria’s chartered and legally empowered institution for the regulation and advancement of Human Resource Management practice.

Under the new directive, officers deployed to Human Resource functions in the Federal Public Service are required to possess approved HR certifications. A twelve-month moratorium has been granted to affected officers to obtain the requisite certification, after which only certified professionals will be eligible for deployment into designated HR roles across the Service.

Speaking on the development, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli, commended the Federal Government for taking a bold and decisive step towards institutionalising professionalism within the public sector.

“This circular is a landmark policy directive that aligns Nigeria’s public service with global best practices in Human Resource Management. As the Chartered Institute statutorily empowered to regulate HR practice in Nigeria, CIPM welcomes this reform and reiterates that professional certification and ethical compliance are non-negotiable requirements for effective people management in any organisation.”

Mallam Gobir further emphasised that the Institute’s establishing law positions CIPM as the authoritative body responsible for setting standards, certifying practitioners, and ensuring discipline within the HR profession in Nigeria.

“While the circular recognises certain international certifications, it is important to reiterate that within Nigeria, CIPM remains the only Institute with the legal mandate to regulate the practice of Human Resource Management. All practitioners operating within Nigeria are expected to align with CIPM’s regulatory framework.”

The policy will significantly enhance service delivery, promote meritocracy, and ensure that HR roles are occupied by competent professionals equipped with the requisite knowledge and ethical grounding to manage Nigeria’s public workforce.

The Institute also called on all HR practitioners, particularly those in the public sector, to take advantage of the transition window to regularise their professional status and obtain CIPM certification.

As Nigeria continues its public sector reform journey, the professionalisation of HR practice represents a critical pillar in building a more efficient, accountable, and results-driven civil service, one anchored on globally benchmarked standards and strengthened by local regulatory oversight led by CIPM.

The post FG Reaffirms CIPM as Nigeria’s Only Chartered HR Regulatory Body appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Nigeria’s only regulatory body for the practice of human resource management, has reaffirmed its statutory mandate and growing global relevance as it inducted over 1,500 new members during its landmark 70th Induction Ceremony held recently in Ikeja, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli, reaffirmed the Institute’s position as the only body empowered by law to regulate HR practice in Nigeria.

According to him, anyone practising human resource management in Nigeria without CIPM certification is operating in breach of statutory provisions guiding the profession.

“The CIPM remains the only regulatory body chartered by an Act of Parliament to regulate the practice of human resource management in Nigeria. That, in itself, is not merely a title. That is authority. That is credibility. And that, I dare say boldly, is legacy carved into the professional history of this nation,” he stated.

Inductees at the 70^th Induction Ceremony of CIPM, held recently in Lagos, Nigeria.

He further described the ceremony as a defining moment in the Institute’s history.

“Today is not just another induction ceremony. Today is indeed legacy wearing a standing ovation. Today is history speaking loudly to the future. Today is the celebration of 70 induction ceremonies of raising leaders, shaping professionals, transforming workplaces, and redefining the world of work in Nigeria and beyond,” he added.

Reflecting on the Institute’s journey over the years, Mallam Gobir noted that the achievements and relevance of CIPM were built through deliberate effort, professionalism, and institutional consistency. “Legacies are not downloaded overnight from Google or from the Apple Store. Legacies are built patiently, carefully, and consistently. And that is the story of CIPM,” he remarked.

President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli, at the 70^th Induction Ceremony of CIPM, held recently in Lagos, Nigeria.

The CIPM President also described the Institute as a transformative force that repositioned human resource management from an administrative support function to a strategic leadership role within organizations.

He further highlighted the Institute’s growing international relevance through its mutual recognition partnerships with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), UK, and Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR), Canada.

According to him, the partnerships have strengthened the global competitiveness of CIPM-certified professionals.

“Our certificates are global passports,” Mallam Gobir stated, adding that the Institute’s qualifications now enjoy international recognition beyond Nigeria’s borders.

He encouraged the newly inducted members to embrace continuous professional development through various learning platforms of the Institute, including the CIPM HR Leadership Academy, the International Conference and Exhibition (ICE), the CIPM & You webinar series, and the CIPM Academic Conference, among others.

A breakdown of the inductees showed that 65 professionals were admitted through the Executive Route, 420 through the HR Practitioners’ Route, while 1,088 members were inducted through the Examination Route, bringing the total number of inductees to 1,573.

Delivering the keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Segun Omotosho, FCIPM, spoke on “HR Strategies for Engaging and Empowering a Multigenerational Workforce,” highlighting the evolving demographics of today’s workforce and the need for organisations to adapt.

He stressed that building inclusive workplaces that recognise diversity and foster a sense of belonging is critical to improving productivity, creativity, and long-term organisational success.

Omotosho described employee engagement as a measure of the emotional and intellectual commitment of workers to their organisations, adding that HR professionals must create environments where employees across different generations feel valued and motivated to contribute meaningfully.

He outlined key strategies for achieving this, including promoting diversity and inclusion policies, encouraging cross-generational collaboration, organising team-building activities, and eliminating workplace bias.

The ceremony also featured recognition of academic excellence, with Mrs. Kafayat Anuoluwapo Azeez-Fashola emerging as the Overall Best Graduating Student for the December 2025 examination diet, while Mrs. Sanusi Karimot Adedamola was named the Overall Best Graduating Student for the March 2026 diet. Both received cash prizes and an all-expense-paid trip to attend the Institute’s 58th International Conference and Exhibition scheduled for September 21–24, 2026, in Abuja

In his closing remarks, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIP, fnli, charged the newly inducted members to uphold professionalism, competence, and ethical conduct in their careers.

“Walk with confidence. Walk with your shoulders raised high. Work with competence, but work with character,” he advised.

The milestone ceremony,  a historic celebration of professionalism, leadership, and the future of work, brought together HR professionals, business leaders, corporate executives, and inductees from across the country to commemorate decades of advancing human resource practice in Nigeria.

The post CIPM Celebrates 70th Induction Milestone, Admits 1,500 into Regulated HR Profession appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

But that’s not all—the nomination process is now open! As valued Members, you have the opportunity to nominate candidates who will uphold the values of our Institute with integrity and dedication.

To ensure a smooth and fair election process, we strongly encourage you to familiarise yourself with the General Campaign and Election Guidelines, which outline the nomination process, election procedures, and code of conduct.

Ready to nominate? Please click here to start your nomination process: http://evoting.cipmnigeria.org/

Important Reminder: Attending and voting at the National AGM and Elections will earn you 5 credit points towards your CIPM membership upgrade. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the Institute while advancing your membership status.

Let’s make this AGM a resounding success! Get involved, nominate, and exercise your voting rights—together, we can drive positive change and progress within our Institute.

General Campaign and Election Guidelines

Steps For Nomination – 57TH AGM And Election

CIPM 2025-2027 Strategic Imperatives

AGM 2025 to 2026 Activity Highlight & Timelines

56th AGM Minutes of Meeting

Members Eligible for the 2025 AGM as at May 4, 2026

Meet the Contestants (Arranged in Alphabetical Order by Surname)

For President & Chairman of the Governing Council Position

NAME: Gobir Ahmed Ladan, FCIPM, fnli

Read profile

For Vice President Position

NAME: Adeoti Omokunbi, FCIPM

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NAME: Obiejesi Chidinma Justina, FCIPM

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For National Treasurer Position

NAME: Ajayi Adeyemi Akinfemi, FCIPM, Chartered FCIPD

Read Profile

NAME: Olabiran Olamide Omorinsola, MCIPM

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For Elected Council Member Position

NAME: Badiru Sean Olabode, MCIPM

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NAME: Faruk Sa’adatu Asabe, MCIPM

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NAME: Idowu Oluwatoyin Frederick, MCIPM

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NAME: Ogu Ewomazino Michael, MCIPM

Read Profile

NAME: Okeke Sabastine Dr., FCIPM

Read profile

NAME: Omole Osahon, MCIPM

Read Profile

The post Exciting Announcement: 57th Annual General Meeting (AGM) appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

At the CIPM, We CARE for our people.

We PARTNER to build their careers.

Together, we strive for EXCELLENCE

Join us. Apply for Program & Event Management Specialist

Click here for details

.

The post Vacancy: Program & Event Management Specialist appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

At the CIPM, We CARE for our people.

We PARTNER to build their careers.

Together, we strive for EXCELLENCE

Join us. Apply for Human Resources & Business Strategy Officer

Click here for details

.

The post Vacancy: Human Resources & Business Strategy Officer appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

The conference, themed “Artificial Intelligence in Academia, Industry and Government: Navigating Ethics, Innovation and Impact,” will bring together scholars, policymakers, industry leaders, and human resource professionals to explore how AI is reshaping knowledge creation, economic systems, and governance structures.

According to the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Giobir, FCIPM, fnli, the initiative reflects the Institute’s commitment to fostering forward-looking conversations that connect theory with practice. He noted that AI has moved beyond theoretical discourse to become a critical driver of transformation across multiple sectors, making it imperative for stakeholders to engage with both its opportunities and ethical implications.

“AI is already influencing how we create knowledge, run businesses, and design public policy. This conference will move the conversation from hype to substance, bringing academics, industry leaders, and policymakers into the same room to translate research into real solutions that serve people and protect societal values,” said Mallam Gobir. Beyond discussion, the event targets practical strategies for responsible innovation and evidence‑based policymaking as organisations continue to integrate AI tools into operations.

The conference will feature interdisciplinary discussions structured around key sub-themes, including AI ethics in practice, human-AI collaboration, and AI-driven sustainability. These sessions are expected to address pressing questions around responsible innovation, regulatory frameworks, and the balance between technological advancement and societal values.

Participants are expected from a wide range of sectors, including academia, human resource management, technology, public service, and entrepreneurship. Students and early-career professionals will also have opportunities to engage with leading experts and gain insights into the evolving intersection of AI and workforce development.

As AI continues to redefine the future of work and society, the outcomes of the gathering could prove pivotal in positioning Nigeria to harness its full potential while safeguarding ethical and inclusive progress. The conference is expected to move beyond theoretical debates to spark practical solutions, strategic partnerships, and policy directions that will shape how artificial intelligence is responsibly deployed across sectors.

The post CIPM Announces 3rd International Academic Conference Focused on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Societal Impact appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

This was made known during a courtesy visit by a CIPM delegation, led by the Vice President, Mrs. Chidinma Obiejesi, FCIPM, on behalf of the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, at her office on Monday, March 16, 2026.

In advancing the Institute’s vision, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli, reiterated in his address CIPM’s strategic focus on deepening engagement with tertiary institutions to promote human capital development and uphold global standards in people management. His message, delivered by the Vice-President, Mrs. Obiejesi, highlighted key areas of collaboration designed to create long-term value for both institutions.

Central to the proposal is the integration of CIPM’s professional certification pathway into the university system, enabling students to pursue dual qualifications that combine academic excellence with globally recognised professional credentials. The Institute also proposed structured membership engagement for the University’s leadership, management staff, and HR practitioners, alongside initiatives to introduce students early to the benefits of professional certification.

To further strengthen this collaboration, CIPM proposed the establishment of a Study Centre within the University to support continuous learning, certification, and capacity building. The Institute also invited UNILAG’s academic community to actively participate in the 3rd CIPM International Academic Conference, scheduled to hold at the University from June 2–3, 2026.

In her response, Professor Ogunsola expressed strong enthusiasm for the partnership, noting its potential to significantly enhance student employability and professional readiness. She emphasised that the collaboration aligns with the University’s commitment to industry engagement, adding that it would also strengthen the professionalisation of the University Registry through structured training and capacity development.

The Vice-Chancellor further highlighted the value of such partnerships in bridging academia and industry, enabling faculty members to gain deeper insights into evolving workplace dynamics while shaping relevant and impactful research.

The engagement reflects CIPM’s broader strategic objective of building sustainable partnerships across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to drive excellence in human resource management, expand professional opportunities, and position the HR profession as a critical enabler of national development.

Both parties expressed optimism about the collaboration, recognising its potential to advance professional education, enhance institutional capacity, and contribute meaningfully to the future of work in Nigeria.

The post CIPM Advances Strategic Collaboration with University of Lagos to Strengthen HR Practice and Professional Development appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

In her remarks, the Registrar/Chief Executive of CIPM, Ms. Oluwatoyin Naiwo, FCIPM, Chartered FCIPD, commended the students for their commitment to seeing the MoU through. She highlighted the value of CIPM membership, which she said confers global recognition due to the Institute’s mutual affiliations with the CIPD (UK) and CPHR (Canada). “Being members of the Institute makes you a global asset. You must continue to acquire values that set you apart and prepare you to go global.” She stated.

Ms. Naiwo also urged the students to contribute to building a stronger Nigeria by embodying professionalism, integrity, and excellence. She warned against the prevailing notion that leaving the country is the only route to success, as meaningful impact can be achieved locally. “The institute wants to train and hand over to a younger workforce that wants to make an impact and be different in a positive way that will make Nigeria better.” She further advised the students to conduct themselves peacefully during their elections, stressing that the Institute aims to nurture a future workforce capable of engaging government constructively and non‑violently. The Registrar concluded by encouraging the students to be proud ambassadors of the Institute and contribute to building the Nigeria they desire.

On his part, the President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Oyewumi Festus, described the agreement as a “landmark opportunity” for the student body, emphasizing that the collaboration aligns with the association’s long-term vision of empowering its members.

“We are grateful to CIPM for granting us this remarkable opportunity to partner with a global organization,” he said. “Our students across the country will be strong ambassadors of CIPM going forward.”

Festus revealed that NAPS first approached CIPM in 2024 with a proposal for partnership, noting that the association’s goal is to ensure students gain not only academic knowledge but also the soft and professional skills required to contribute meaningfully to society. He added that members intend to participate actively in CIPM conferences and professional activities to broaden their exposure.

Also speaking at the event, NAPS National Stakeholders Adviser, Comrade Abdulmumeen Ibrahim, assured that the association will work closely with students and lecturers nationwide to maximize the benefits of the partnership.

In his closing remarks, CIPM Deputy Registrar, Mr. Gbenga Odetunde, MCIPM, applauded the NAPS leadership for pursuing the initiative and urged them to put the MoU into meaningful use.

As the ceremony came to an end, the message was clear: the MoU marks not just an agreement on paper, but the beginning of a transformative journey aimed at shaping a more competent, confident, and globally competitive future workforce for the nation.

The post CIPM, NAPS Seal Landmark MoU to Develop Nigeria’s Next‑Gen Workforce appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.

The visit, which took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Board Room of the University, reflects the Institute’s commitment to advancing human capital development and strengthening the link between academia and professional practice.

The CIPM delegation was led by the Vice President of the Institute, Mrs. Chidinma Justina Obiejesi, FCIPM, who represented the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli. The delegation was received by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, alongside members of the University’s management team.

Welcoming the delegation, Professor Kehinde expressed appreciation to the leadership of CIPM for the visit and commended the Institute for its role in promoting professional standards and contributing to the development of human capital in Nigeria. He highlighted the University’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, noting that the institution operates on three key mandates of teaching, research, and community engagement.

The Vice-Chancellor also spoke about the University’s focus on entrepreneurship development and its efforts to equip students with practical skills that prepare them for leadership and productivity in the world of work. He further reaffirmed the University’s readiness to ensure that the collaboration with CIPM delivers meaningful value to the institution and its community.

Delivering the remarks of the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIPM, the Vice President, Mrs. Chidinma Obiejesi, FCIPM, emphasized that partnerships between professional institutions and universities are essential in preparing students and professionals for the evolving demands of the workplace.

She noted that the engagement between the Institute and the University reflects a shared commitment to building capacity, developing leaders, and strengthening professional standards. She also reassured the University’s leadership that the Memorandum of Understanding signed between both institutions would not merely remain a document but would translate into meaningful collaboration and impact.

During the visit, the Vice President also encouraged the Vice-Chancellor and members of staff of the University to consider membership of the Institute in order to further deepen professional engagement in the field of Human Resource Management. The Vice Chancellor expressed interest in becoming a member of CIPM, while members of staff were also encouraged to explore the Institute’s membership opportunities.

As part of the engagement, the Vice President and members of the CIPM delegation also held a session with student executives of the University, during which they shared insights on the role and mandate of the Institute as the regulatory body for Human Resource Management in Nigeria. The students were encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities available through the Institute and to promote awareness of CIPM among their peers.

Also present at the meeting were members of the University’s management team, including, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Olawale Dairo; Registrar, Titus Adeniyi; Dean, College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development, Emmanuel Fakoya; Head, Department of Agricultural Administration, Adefunke Ayinde; and Oluwakemi Fapojuwo, among others.

The CIPM delegation included the Registrar/Chief Executive, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Naiwo, FCIPM; the Deputy Registrar, Mr. Gbenga Odetunde, MCIPM; the Director of Membership and Marketing, Mr. Olutayo Olawale, MCIPM; the Head of Advocacy and Stakeholder Management, Mr. Olufunmi Onasanya, MCIPM; the Head of Corporate Communications, Ms. Esther Adeyanju;  as well as officials of the CIPM Ogun State Branch, including the Chairman, Mrs. Oladunni Adetona, MCIPM, the General Secretary, Mr. Olanrewaju Oke, ACIPM, and Mr. Adewale Gbadebo, ACIPM, Ex-Officio II.

The engagement reflects CIPM’s continued efforts to strengthen collaboration with tertiary institutions in order to promote professional excellence and support the development of future leaders in the field of people management.

The post CIPM, FUNAAB Sign MoU to Advance Professional Education and Human Capital Development appeared first on CIPM Nigeria.