By Lucy Ogalue
The Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN) says effective project management remains a key driver of national transformation, emphasising that when projects succeed, the nation prospers.
Registrar-General and Chief Executive Officer of CIPMN, Mr Henry Mbadiwe, said this in Abuja, at a news briefing to mark the 2025 International Project Management Day.
The occasion is celebrated annually on the first Thursday of November. This year’s theme is “The Power Trio: Project, Leadership, and Agile.”
The celebration, initiated in 2004 by the International Institute for Learning, provides an opportunity to recognise professionals and institutions that promote development through efficient project management.
It also allows governments and stakeholders to reflect on how project delivery contributes to economic growth and social progress.
Mbadiwe said that the theme underscored the dynamic link between structured project management, visionary leadership, and agility in responding to change.
“The power of these three elements defines how well institutions can translate leadership decisions into impactful outcomes,” he said.
He reaffirmed that CIPMN, established by Act No. 3 of 2018, remained the Federal Government’s regulatory body responsible for licensing, certifying, and supervising project management practice in the country.
According to him, this mandate ensures that all projects, public or private, adhere to quality, transparency, and sustainability standards.
The registrar-general urged citizens, government agencies, and private organisations to appreciate the critical role project management played in driving national development.
“Projects are not only about structures and buildings; they improve lives, strengthen systems, and ensure value for money,” he said.
Mbadiwe advised public institutions to set up project management offices, engage certified project managers, and train officers in line with CIPMN standards.
He also called on the private sector to uphold ethics and performance-driven outcomes, reiterating that compliance and accountability remained central to project success.
Mbadiwe highlighted what he described as the five Cs of effective project management as Complexity, Criticality, Compliance, Culture, and Compassion.
He said these values would guide the institute’s efforts to strengthen professionalism and excellence in project delivery nationwide.
He said the institute would continue collaborating with ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to promote quality assurance, reduce project delays, and minimise cost overruns that hindered Nigeria’s infrastructural growth.
Reaffirming CIPMN’s commitment to professionalism, excellence, collaboration, diversity, and sustainability, Mbadiwe called on all stakeholders to join hands with the institute in building a culture of credible project management.
“As we celebrate this day, we are reminded that project management is not just a technical process but a vital instrument for national transformation.
“When projects succeed, Nigeria succeeds,” he added.
Mbadiwe also announced that CIPMN would hold its Annual Conference and Sixth Induction Ceremony from Dec. 2 to Dec. 4.
He said it would bring together policymakers, professionals, and industry leaders to discuss leadership, project governance, and innovation in Nigeria’s development space.
He commended project managers across the country for their contributions to national progress, urging them to continue creating value through integrity, innovation, and excellence.
“Let us strive together to make every project count, every effort matter, and every Nigerian benefit,” Mbadiwe said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
