Human capital management key to workplace sustainability – Ogun HoS

The Ogun State Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, has stressed that effective Human Capital Management (HCM) is critical for workplace sustainability and organisational survival, both now and in the future.

Onasanya stated this while delivering his remarks at the 11th Annual Conference of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), Ogun State branch, held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The conference had the theme: “Strategies for Navigating New Challenges in Human Capital Management.”

According to him, the theme is both relevant and timely, coming at a period when the dynamics of Nigeria’s workforce are undergoing rapid transformation, requiring innovative approaches and strategic responses.

“Human Capital Management has always been central to productivity in any organisation,” Onasanya said. “However, it is currently undergoing significant disruption in Nigeria as both public and private sectors face challenges that demand creativity and adaptability from policy leaders, especially human resources professionals. There is a need to constantly devise innovative solutions to align organisational goals with evolving workforce realities.”

He highlighted the critical role of HR managers in attracting and retaining talent, ensuring compliance, managing risks, promoting a productive work culture, and driving continuous upskilling. He added that effective workforce planning, capacity building, and clear policies are essential for organisational success.

The HoS commended CIPM for its consistency in providing platforms for professional engagement and knowledge sharing on issues shaping the future of work and national development. He also lauded the institute for honouring Ogun State with an Award of Excellence at a recent dinner organised for Heads of Service across the federation.

Onasanya assured that the state government would continue to prioritise capacity building and urged participants to pay rapt attention to the resource persons to maximise the value of the conference.

Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Cabinet and Special Services, Mr. Olanrewaju Saka, said achieving the vision and mission of government and private organisations requires HR managers to play their roles effectively. He expressed confidence that insights and best practices shared at the event would enhance participants’ expertise and have a lasting impact on organisational growth.

Delivering the keynote address, CIPM President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Ahmed Gobir, said the institute remains committed to setting and maintaining high standards for HR practice in Nigeria. He stressed the need for HR practitioners to continuously upscale their skills to improve efficiency and operational effectiveness.

Earlier, Ogun State CIPM Chairman, Mrs. Oladunni Adetona, described the three-day conference as a platform to brainstorm on emerging challenges in the HR profession and chart a course for robust human capital management. She emphasised the importance of networking and collaboration to sharpen practitioners’ skills for greater organisational impact.