Harnessing technology for effective leadership and management in Nigeria

The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with technology emerging as the most powerful driver of transformation. Nations that successfully integrate emerging technologies into governance and management experience exponential growth, while those slow to adapt struggle to compete on the global stage. In Nigeria, where we have abundant human and material resources, the challenge is not a lack of knowledge but a deficit in effective leadership and management. Addressing this gap is critical to unlocking the full potential of our nation.

During his speech, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a profound statement: “We are not poor in knowledge. We are not poor in human resources. We are only poor in management and leadership, and that is why I ran for president—to help all of us mold the soul of our country in the right direction.” These words underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift in leadership, governance, and management.

The theme of the 25th investiture of the President of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Commodore Abimbola Ayuba, “Leveraging Emerging Technologies in Management,” is both timely and significant. It highlights the intersection between innovation and leadership, emphasizing the necessity of embracing technological advancements for more effective governance, corporate efficiency, and institutional growth.

As the world advances into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are redefining the management landscape. In both the private and public sectors, these technologies are not merely tools but powerful enablers that enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and optimize resource allocation.

Technology serves as a force multiplier across governance, business, and national security. In the military, for instance, AI-powered intelligence systems, cyber warfare capabilities, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have revolutionized operations. These advancements underscore the necessity for Nigeria to invest in research, development, and the implementation of technology-driven solutions.

Similarly, data analytics plays a crucial role in decision-making by providing actionable insights based on real-time information. Both governments and businesses must harness these technologies to enhance service delivery, increase transparency, and fortify resilience against emerging threats.

To successfully integrate technology into management, we must prioritize capacity building. Our educational system must evolve to produce graduates equipped with the digital skills necessary for the modern economy. Public and private institutions must invest in continuous learning programs to ensure that Nigeria does not lag in the global technological race.

Moreover, leadership in the digital age requires adaptability. Leaders must be open to change, willing to embrace disruption, and ready to make data-driven decisions. By fostering a culture of innovation and technological adoption, we can ensure sustainable growth across all sectors.

Nigeria’s demographic dividend provides a unique opportunity. With a young and vibrant population, we must channel our energy into digital literacy and entrepreneurship. The government, private sector, and academia must collaborate to develop policies that encourage technological adoption, foster innovation hubs, and support homegrown solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges.

As Commodore Ayuba assumes the leadership of the Nigerian Institute of Management, I urge him to champion the integration of technology in management practices across all sectors. The success of our institutions and organizations in the 21st century will depend largely on their ability to leverage technology for efficiency, accountability, and growth.

Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to harness technology for unprecedented progress. However, achieving this requires visionary leadership, strategic management, and a commitment to continuous learning. If we can bridge the gap between knowledge and effective leadership, we will position Nigeria as a formidable force in the global economy.

As we navigate this journey, let us embrace technology as a partner in development, leveraging its transformative power to build a more prosperous, efficient, and competitive nation.

Congratulations once again to Commodore Ayuba as he takes on this prestigious leadership role. More importantly, I commend the Institute for its excellent choice of leadership, one that will steer the ship of management on a progressive course. As we say in the navy, I wish you fair winds and following seas. Onward together!

This article is an adaptation of the keynote address delivered by Vice Admiral AZ Gambo CFR (Rtd.), 21st Indigenous Chief of the Naval Staff at the investiture of Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (Rtd.) as the 25th President of the Nigerian Institute of Management.

…Vice Admiral AZ Gambo CFR (retd.) writes from Abuja