By Adebayo Obajemu
Dr Olufemi Omoyele, a university don and President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management of Nigeria (CIHRM) has called on human resources practitioners to humanise and harness technology for organisational growth.
Omoyele made this known in Abuja at the opening of the two-day 2026 CIHRM national conference, with theme: “Shaping the Future of Meaningful Work: HR Imperative.”
He noted that the world of work had been largely remade by widening generational gaps, particularly with Generation Z redefining the ethos and purpose of work, even as the Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to automate tasks.
He said hybrid work has become the new norm, while employees are increasingly seeking opportunities to upskill and reskill to remain relevant in the evolving workplace.
“The world of work is changing faster than ever, and achieving meaningful work is becoming more complex.
“Work is now the new pivot for attracting, retaining and enhancing employee performance. Who sits at the centre of these shifts? The HR professional,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Registrar of CIHRM, Mr Abiodun Oni, noted that the conference provided participants an exceptional opportunity for learning, collaboration and professional networking.
According to him, the gathering has provided opportunity for HR practitioners and thought leaders to share innovative ideas, explore emerging trends and strengthen professionalism in the ever-changing world of work.
Oni said the conference’s theme underscored the need for HR professionals to move beyond being stewards of employment to becoming stewards of meaningful work.
“Meaningful work is where purpose meets performance. As human resources professionals, we are not just custodians of people policies.
“We are architects of the future workforce and stewards of human potential,” he said.
He added that the future of work would not be defined by technology alone but by the quality of leadership guiding its adoption.
According to him, today’s HR professionals have the responsibility to shape workplaces where productivity is matched by purpose, innovation by inclusion and success by human dignity.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Mr Andrew Adejo, represented by Mrs Ogidi-Paul, Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, commended CIHRM for organising the conference.
She said a high-performing public service was not an administrative luxury but a critical development infrastructure that prioritised recruitment based on competence and organisational alignment rather than credentials alone.
According to her, HR contributes directly to national growth by building the knowledge, skills, values and leadership required to achieve national priorities.
She added that HR productivity was aligned by people, technology and incentives with measurable outcomes, while fostering innovation through environments that encourage creativity, experimentation and problem-solving.Ogidi further noted that effective HR management strengthened institutional trust, continuity and sustainable national development. (NAN)
