By Rukayat Moisemhe

Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director, Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, has tasked Human Resources (HR) practitioners to deepen their professional knowledge to tackle the disruptive demands of the ever-changing business environment.

Okunbor said this at a forum organised by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) in Lagos on Wednesday.

The Shell MD said the advice was critical because Human Resources took a central role to help organisations transit and prepare for technology and other disruptive business realities.

According to him, business realities is underpinned by volatility and uncertainty, therefore organisations require the best degree of HR resilience to cope with with happenings.

“Today’s business realities involve volatile and uncertain globalisation, inflation, war for talent, technology disruptions and artificial intelligence advancements.

“2023 and beyond demands a high level of HR innovation and disruption hence the need to rethink HR.

“This involves rethinking organisations culture and leadership, pushing boundaries to power organisational agility, acquire cross functional aptitude, unleash digitalisation, elevate HR decision science, prioritise inclusion and embrace perpetual work reinvention,” he said.

Okunbor also tasked HR professionals to align strategies with organisational goals and ensure that talents were properly managed and preserved to save the future of organisations and government.

“What worries me the most is how much we spend training children abroad and talents exported with no plans of their coming back.

“If care is not taken, talent may become a big issue for us in the future in corporate organisations and even government.

“HR professionals must begin to leverage data science to drive credible people outcomes,” he said.

President, CIPM, Mr Olusegun Mojeed, said the forum was organised to help the institute connect better with the business community in Nigeria.

“One major priority to me and the team is stakeholders engagement at various levels.

“We did our stakeholders mapping and realised that we needed to connect with business owners and leaders who employ people.

“As the leading people management institute, our core function does not end with just engaging our members and providing the needed professional support.

“It also involves connecting with people managers across board, especially those who may not necessarily be HR professionals,” Mojeed said.

Malam Ibrahim Dasuki Arabi, Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, urged the CIPM on the professionalism and certification of HR profession in the public sector across all levels- states and local government. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Mr Chukwudi Ezugu, the National Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), says both concrete and asphalt pavements are good for road construction.

Ezugu made this clarification on Wednesday in Abuja, on the sidelines of the 21^st International Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Institution.

The theme of the conference is “Trends in Sustainable Civil Engineering Infrastructure for Economic Growth’’.

He spoke against the backdrop of the trending debate about the use of concrete or asphalt pavements in the construction of the nation’s highways.

According to Ezugu, the two are different road pavements and are used for different conditions of roads.

“If the load on the road is quite high concrete pavement would be preferable, it is also more durable but the cost is much higher but flexible pavement also has a life span of 20-25 years.

“So, basically there are some roads which are arterial for high traffic you may have to make that decision to do that investment.

“Basically, what we are saying here is that this will depend on the study, because there are experts that study each of this situation with the client agreeing based on the economies and its serviceability.

“Nothing is actually permanent so, if you have to do a project that has to last for 20 to 25 years, it is possible that after that, you may even like to restructure the project in itself, redesign for one thing or the other.

Speaking on the relevance of the theme of the conference, the national chairman said it was geared toward economic development taking into cognisance new technologies and new materials.

“Including local ones and also ways of funding infrastructure, it must be sustainable infrastructure.

“We need infrastructure, which we develop and which will not constitute a problem to the future generation.

“In other words, the materials you use should not endanger the environment or the future and all these is geared toward forming the bedrock for economic development,”Ezugu said.

He further said that adequate civil infrastructure was known to be the foundation of any vibrant and strong economy and the socioeconomic status of any nation was measured by its degree of infrastructural development.

He said the conference would look at the challenges of impoverished civil engineering development and proffer solutions to change the narrative through the use of innovation, local material and alternative funding.

Also speaking at the conference, the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Mr Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, said the worth of any society was dependent on the infrastructure it parades.

He was represented at the conference by Mr Chinasaokwu  Okoli, Vice President, NSE.

He said it could be engineering infrastructure, medical infrastructure, economic infrastructure, legal or financial stressing that  all the infrastructure resolve around the engineering infrastructure.

‘This is because it is what gives the platform on which a society can boast that they are okay.  What we doing here is that the experts are speaking to themselves and at the end of this conference there will be a communiqué.

“Which will be passed on to the government, the people that formulate the policies and drive the policy there are people that implement it and there are people that monitor it.

“So we are all stakeholders at the end of the day the conference will come up with a communiqué on which subject experts must have brainstormed and bring the way forward.

On the issue of concrete or asphalt he said nothing is wrong with either of the method, adding that the society was planning on organising a national discourse on it soon.

“There is nothing wrong with flexible pavement there is nothing wrong with rigid pavement but when the core subject experts meet they will advise on which one is advisable.

“It is not a one fit all solution, there are places we see that rigid pavement is more economical, there are places that flexible pavement is more economical.

“Whatever an engineer is doing he is looking at the economy with functionality and durability, sustainability casts it all, so we will be coming up with some statements that will advise the government as subject experts.

“It will be a win-win for all of us, and kudos to the Minister of Works for bringing up this issue, this is what happens all over the world that is because he is a subject expert,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
PUO/IAA

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has challenged operational level commanders of the armed forces to demonstrate intelligence, integrity and character in the conduct of their missions.

Lagbaja gave the charge at the Graduation Dinner and Awards Night for participants of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 7/2023, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The COAS was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, at the event.

He said that strategic leaders had an understanding of the intricacies of the environment, adding that it required the ability to craft and communicate a vision, demands astute leadership and selfless commitment to mission and subordinates.

According him, it requires that they demonstrate both competence, character and consistency in every action taken in order to earn the trust and confidence of their subordinates.

“Most importantly, it requires that you take on the development and mentorship of the next generation of young leaders.

“Therefore, I urge you to be men of intelligence, integrity and also gentlemen of character as you go back to the field.

“Distinguished graduating participants as you prepare to leave the college, I am sure you are aware that the nation still faces various security challenges.

“The challenges facing the nation includes terrorism, armed banditry, vandalism, kidnapping, herders and farmers conflict, cultism and secessionist aggitation amongst others.

“These asymmetric security challenges which have impacted heavily on our collective well-being have greatly posted a considerate threats to our national cohesion,” he said.

The COAS said that a lot of progress had been made in ongoing military operations in both the North East, North West and other theatres with large number of terrorists surrendering in the northeast and the gradual return of calm in other parts of the country.

He commended the troops in all theatres of operations who, he said, had exhibited unparalleled  determination to decisively deal with the security challenges across the country.

He said their loyalty, commitment and doggedness in the various theatres of operation deserved every commendation and support from all Nigerians.

According to him, the federal government, is ever committed to supporting the armed forces in the effort to develop the right set of skills and knowledge of its personnel to be better prepared to tackle security threats that confronts us all.

“Although there will be uncertainty, but one thing is sure that the nation will overcome its challenges partly because of you as you join your compatriots in the field, put in your best and make the nation proud,” he added.

The Commandant, AWCN, Maj.-Gen. Ishaya Maina, said the purpose of having a dinner along with the award night was to further engender a sense of professionalism in the college and celebrate with participants after the rigorous academic session.

Maina said the event also provided a unique opportunity for the college to honor and publicly recognise deserving recipients.

He said that the recipients outstanding dedication and sacrifice had enabled them to set high standard for the college that had been acknowledged locally and internationally.

He expressed confidence that the participants were well prepared to help develop options for overcoming the myriad of issues facing the nation, say0ing the college had provided them with valuable tools to tackle contemporary challenges and implementable practical options.

“We expect that you will knowledgeably take up your positions and play critical role in the evolution of 21st century military thinking required to meet these challenges.

It should not come to you as a surprise if you find yourself returning to one operational theatre or another.

“The COAS sir, I feel proud to tell you that the packages that the participants have undergone has made them operational ready and battle ready to be deployed into any operational field as they leave the college.

“I encourage you to understand the system appreciate the huge investment gone into your teaining and the value that your predecessors have added to their respective services.

“Therefore, there will be high demand for excellence, knowledge, ideas, options, quality service among others from you,” he said.

The commandant encouraged them to proudly stand on the solid foundation provider at the college and make their professional marks.

He irged them to always strive for excellence and not tolerate or encourage mediocrity, as well as be compassionate and apply empathy to their subordinates.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the awards of excellence of research papers were presented to deserving participants who distinguished themselves during the period of study as well as some directing staffs for excellence service to the college. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

edited by Sadiya Hamza

By Victor Okoye

The African Centre for Youth Sports and Development (ACYSD) says no fewer than 10,000 girls from across the FCT will participate in ‘All Girls Colour Run’ event in Abuja.

A statement by Yinka Suleiman, the Founder and Executive Director of ACYSD, on Wednesday, said the event would mark this year’s edition of the International Day of the Girl Child.

“The ‘All Girls Colour Run’ which is a vibrant five-kilometer fun run celebrating girls’ participation in sports and wellness is aimed at promoting physical activity, self-expression, and camaraderie among girls.

“ACYSD believes in the transformative power of sports to empower girls and address the unique challenges they face.

“By organising these events, we seek to create a platform for dialogue, inspiration and practical solutions,” she said.

Suleiman said the event would be preceded by a Conference on Oct.11 to Oct.12 where influential figures, advocates, and champions of girls’ rights would brainstorm on strategies for empowering girls through sports.

She noted that the events would be held in partnership with other local and international organisations.

“The conference will address challenges faced by girls in sports and explore ways to increase their participation.

“Distinguished members from the international community, sports advocates, top athletes and notable women will grace the occasion.

“The events will provide a space to champion the rights of girls and encourage their active participation in sports,” she said.

According to ACYSD’s CEO, the Advancing Girls Conference will feature thought-provoking discussions on strategies to overcome barriers hindering girls in sports.

She appealed to all stakeholders, including government representatives, educators, parents, students, and the public to participate and contribute to the impactful celebration.

“These events represent a pivotal moment in our ongoing commitment to promoting the rights and empowerment of girls.

“We believe in the transformative power of sports, and these gatherings are a testament to the positive impact it can have on girls’ lives,” she said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

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By Jessica Dogo

The Chairman, Uniccon Group, Dr Chuks Ekwueme has tasked newly appointed Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) to leverage their expertise and social currencies to deliver on the responsibilities entrusted to them.

The General Manager of the group, Mr Kehinde Ake, who said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, added that the CEOs were appointed at the Uniccon subsidiary offices.

Ake quoted the Chairman as saying that the appointees of its Chuksprime Organics, SmartAfri Labs and Baba Sky Technologies subsidiaries were Mr Chris Ebosie, Mr Eval Esege and Mr Ronald Ajiboye accordingly.

He said the appointments were critical to repositioning the Group’s subsidiaries for market traction and more impact in the technology space.

Ekwueme said that they were appointed based on their great expertise and specialty.

He said: “The choice of Chris to lead Chuksprime was an easy one, given his great expertise and management experience across several industries and stake in creating the blockchain technology and managerial prowess.

“On Ajiboye, I could not have made a better choice given his foothold in UAV-drone research, development, marketing and networking in the UAV space.”

The chairman said that Chuksprime was an agro export company focused on the sourcing, processing, and export of Natural and organic agro commodities.

He said Smartafri Labs was a blockchain hub for the NFT marketplace, utility tokens and the metaverse. It drives African creatives, and creation and incorporates its cultures into the specialised niche.

According to Ekwueme, Baba Sky Technologies engages in the research, development, deployment and commercialisation of customised military, surveillance, agro and use-case UAV-drone.

In response, the new executives thanked the chairman for the confidence reposed in them and promised to exceed expectations with the cooperation of management and members of staff. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar-Audu has revealed the Federal Government plan to make the Ajaokuta environ a Free Trade Zone to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and to diversify the economy of the country.

Abubakar-Audu disclosed this at his maiden visit to the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCOL) on Wednesday, as he took a tour of the complex.

He also pledged his commitment to ensure the production of steel from the multi-billion dollar investment project of the Federal Government under a three-year plan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister was accompanied on the trip by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mary Ogbe, Staff of the Ministry, and some foreign investors

Abubakar-Audu said that the visit was aimed at getting a first-hand knowledge of the problems stopping production in the company in a bid to proffering solutions.

He said that President Bola Tinubu had also taken interest in the resuscitation of Ajaokuta Steel Complex by appointing him as the pioneer Minister to show the world the importance of Steel Development to Industrialization.

He further stated that Ajaokuta Steel Company if gotten right would create over 500,000 jobs which would be enough to lift Nigerians out of poverty.

“We want to thank President Bola  Tinubu for having the vision to create a Steel Development Ministry

”Over the past 40 years, we had the largest Steel Plant in Nigeria and one of the largest West Africa which has not functioned.

”But the President knows that in order to industrialize Nigeria, we have to get the steel industry working,” he said.

According to him, in line with the key point agenda of ‘Renewed Hope’ of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, some of the key elements are job creation, diversification of the economy and to attract Foreign Direct Investment.

”If we are able to revitalize Ajaokuta, it will help us achieve this. This key point agenda will also help us eradicate poverty.

“To achieve this, we have put together two documents. A three-year plan for the revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company which will have a Small and Medium Term Plan.

“Part of the things is the roadmap to designate the 24,000 hectares land of Ajaokuta an Industrial Park, to create a Free Trade Zone that will further attract Foreign Direct Investment,” he said.

He said that his job was to ensure that all those typical issues that held the plant from producing be resolved.

”And by the first term of this administration, if we are able to produce some sheet of steel, it will be a significant achievement.

“I have taken an extensive tour of the complex and plants, and there are lots of opportunities that if we are able to unlock we will be able to create over 500,000 jobs, which ill benefit kogites a bit more importantly, Nigerians.

”This will also guarantee that everyone benefits from the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “ Audu said.

Audu said that he was on the tour with potential foreign investors and experts who have shown. Interest in bringing FDI to unlock these potentials.

Different investors given different components also worked in resuscitating moribund steel plants in other countries.

The Minister said that the investors will carry out an advanced technical audit of the steel complex and its facilities so see what more is to be done.

“I am being accompanied here today by investors who are ready to put their expertise to ensure that this steel company works.

“We have the Russians, Americans, Arabs and Chinese who are showing interest. They have come to show their desire to carry out an advanced technical audit to see what needs to be completed.

“After my findings from here, we will forward everything to Mr President for his approval,” Audu said.

Audu said that in addition to the three-year plan, there was a five-year plan which would also see to ensuring the production of steel in other parts of the country.

Mr Sumaila Abdul-Akaba, Sole Administration and Chief Executive Officer, thanked Mr President for reviving the hope of Nigerians by making Ajaokuta a priority again.

Abdul-Akaba also commended Audu for his great vision and plans in reviving the company, noting that Ajaokuta is a land of vast opportunities.

“Unlike the thinking of so many people, Ajaokuta is not obsolete but only requires the right attention to get the multi-billion dollar running again.

“All we have to do as staff is to join hands with the visions of the President and also key into the plans of the Minister,” Abdul-Alkaba said.

Mr Jalil Hkoodshoev, a Foreign Investor from Novostal-M Company in Russia, lauded the initiatives of Mr. President in reviving the company.

Hkoodshoev noted that with what they had seen on ground, they were e very interested in investing in the company.

He added that the resuscitation of the company would be a big impact not only to Nigeria but the entire West Africa, and the African region in general.

“I assisted His Excellency with this trip to Ajaokuta, I am mesmerized about the size of the plant.

”It is amazing and I think that the initiatives that have been taken by His Excellency, the President of Nigeria will have a big impact not only for Nigeria but all the sub-region and all of Africa.

“I hope that in the next couple of years, we can participate also as partners of the government for this project, and for the steel business,” Hkoodshoev said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola