Bridging Skills Gap, Key To Mitigating ‘Japa’ Syndrome – Expert

President, Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) Lagos State chapter, Tokunbo Taiwo, has highlighted the creation of pool of talents to bridge the skills gap as a key measure to mitigate the ‘Japa Syndrome’ or brain drain in Nigeria.

Addressing an audience at the recently concluded 2023 Annual GRC Conference with the theme, “Enhancing Digital Trust Through IT GRC” on December 7 and 8, 2023, Taiwo emphasised the critical importance of building a talent pipeline to bridge the existing skills gap, presenting it as a key strategy to counter the prevalent ‘Japa’ syndrome.

Taiwo highlighted the significant impact of the ‘Japa’ syndrome on the professional landscape, observing the mass exodus of professionals, including ISACA members, from the country. In response, he outlined the proactive approach adopted by the Lagos State chapter of ISACA to address the challenge, asserting their commitment to creating a continuous talent pipeline to narrow the skills gap.

Highlighting one of the initiatives, Taiwo mentioned the strategic decision to collaborate with ISACA Global to provide free onboarding for student-members.

He happily reported the successful addition of over 100 new student-members through the initiative and called on the seasoned professionals in attendance to consider mentoring the emerging talents.

Taiwo further informed the audience about ISACA Lagos Chapter’s collaborative efforts with sister chapters in Abuja, Ibadan, and Port Harcourt, as well as engagements with other chapters across the African continent. He encouraged everyone to anticipate the positive outcomes of the collaborations.

In addition, Taiwo shared that ISACA Lagos chapter was actively engaging with government officials at both state and federal levels to maximise benefits for its members and contribute to the realisation of a nation that all citizens can be proud of.

The event, attended by top government officials, regulatory bodies, and accomplished professionals, took a moment to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals pivotal to the development of the ISACA body and certifications.

Notable commendations were extended to individuals such as Mrs Bolanle Lawal, Mr Okechukwu Okeke, Mrs Yetunde Olofinle, Mr Joseph Benedict and contributor Moyosore Odeniyi. Their exceptional performances in the 2023 ISACA exams were acknowledged and celebrated during the conference.