Professor Maryam Abdu has been appointed President of the Governing Council of the Centre for Public Service Productivity and Development (CeProd). She succeeds Professor Sandeep Kumar Gupta, who laid the foundation for the centre's growth and development. Abdu's appointment marks a new chapter for CeProd, with a focus on improving productivity and responding to emerging challenges. Her leadership will aim to enhance the centre's impact and relevance in Nigeria and beyond.
In her acceptance speech, Abdu outlined her vision for CeProd, emphasizing the need for continuity with improvement. She highlighted the importance of addressing emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and climate change. Abdu also stressed the need for productivity to become a national development priority in Nigeria and other African countries. Her goal is to translate human and economic potential into prosperity.
Abdu redefined productivity as finding smarter ways to work, using resources efficiently, innovating, and creating value. She emphasized that potential alone does not create prosperity, but productivity converts potential into prosperity. To achieve this, CeProd will focus on public-sector efficiency, private-sector competitiveness, entrepreneurship, workforce development, digital transformation, and organisational excellence. These areas will be crucial in driving growth and development in Nigeria.
The new CeProd president called for productivity measurement and performance improvement to become part of the management culture of governments, businesses, and institutions. She also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among CeProd Fellows and members through research, knowledge sharing, and professional development. This will enable the centre to promote technology-driven productivity and innovation.
Abdu highlighted the growing adoption of AI and emerging technologies, emphasizing the need for professionals to acquire the skills required to adapt to the changing workplace. CeProd will play a crucial role in promoting this agenda. The centre will help professionals navigate the changing landscape and develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving work environment.
Dr Chris Egbu, Director-General of CeProd, expressed confidence in the new leadership and called for stronger collaboration among the governing council, management, and stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of working together to achieve CeProd's goals and objectives. The centre's success will depend on the collective efforts of its members and stakeholders.
Under Abdu's leadership, CeProd is poised to make a significant impact in Nigeria and beyond. Her vision for the centre is ambitious, and her experience and expertise make her well-suited to drive growth and development. As the centre continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor its progress and impact.
Key points
- Professor Maryam Abdu has been appointed President of CeProd's Governing Council.
- Abdu aims to build on CeProd's achievements while responding to emerging challenges.
- CeProd will focus on public-sector efficiency, private-sector competitiveness, and digital transformation.
