Tinubu Pledges To Reduce Nigeria’s Foreign Dependence

President Bola Tinubu has said his administration is committed to steering Nigeria towards self-reliance and reducing dependency on others. He said the administration envisions an unprecedented level of industrial activity, marked by the establishment of unique industrial hubs tailored to the strengths of each region in our great nation.

“Our commitment to ending poverty is deeply intertwined with our focus on economic growth and job creation,” Tinubu said, acknowledging that sustainable development can only be achieved by fostering an environment where job opportunities abound, ensuring food security, and eradicating poverty. Those indicators are currently negative in Nigeria.

President Tinubu gave the assurance at the 55th International Conference & Exhibition and Emerald Jubilee celebration of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) with the theme, Sustainable HR, Business and National Development.

Represented at the event by the minister of state for labour and employment, Nkiru Onyejeocha, Tinubu said his administration will prominently feature women and youth in all its endeavours, recognising them as integral contributors to our nation’s success in line with its vision to ensure exclusivity.

He told the HR practitioners that their role is crucial in moulding, and effectively managing people to become catalysts for economic resurgence in an increasingly competitive and changing world.

“I implore you to continually ensure that the bar is raised for impactful people management and organisational development, to ensure a skilled workforce that is in tune with the 21st Century workplace.

“I therefore invite you to partner with us in the continued quest to shape minds that will chart a better course for the future of tomorrow bringing progress and prosperity to our nation while eliminating poverty.

President Tinubu said his vision for the Nigerian workforce is one where every citizen who wishes to be, is gainfully employed and able to take care of themselves and their family. Together, keying into this vision, we will banish poverty.

President and chairman of the governing council of the CIPM, Mr Olusegun Mojeed said this year’s theme is apt. Mr Mojeed said now more than ever, HR is charged with the responsibility of shaping a progressive organisation and nation.

He said sustainability is all about people, businesses, the nation, and performance. “Sustainability is not a fad or a buzzword. A trend? Yes. But it’s a trend that’s worth understanding and considering for your people, businesses, and the nation.”

He stated that most industries in today’s ecosystem are experiencing rapid and exponential bouts of change triggered by disruptive technologies and generally increasing the agile nature of the external market.

“Sustainable people practise is a strong catalyst for cultural, national, and infrastructural development amongst others. Talent supply will play a major role in creating and shaping the conditions in which organisations and nations will operate,” he stated.

A record number of 61 recipients of the institute’s highest grade of membership was recorded in the ongoing conference for the fellowship grade. Mojeed said they have been assessed and certified by the membership committee and the board of fellows.