CNS receives NIM fellowship, reaffirms commitment to people-centred leadership

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas has been conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) in recognition of his contributions to professional leadership.

The conferment, which also reconises his service to the nation took place on Thursday at an investiture ceremony themed, “Leading Through Transformation: The Human Element in Modern Leadership”.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho and made available on Thursday in Abuja.

Speaking at the occasion, Abbas appreciated the Governing Council, Management and members of NIM (Chartered) for the recognition, describing the fellowship as both an honour and a renewed call to greater responsibility, continuous learning and service.

He noted that the theme of the occasion was particularly relevant to contemporary leadership, stressing that organisations were operating in an environment shaped by rapid technological advancement.

He said it featured expanding access to information and increasingly complex security and economic realities.

He also noted that while technology and systems enhanced organisational capability, people remained central to achieving meaningful and sustainable transformation.

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The CNS further emphasised that this principle was particularly applicable to the Armed Forces, where ships, aircraft, weapons and other sophisticated systems could only achieve their intended purpose when operated by trained, motivated and committed personnel.

He identified the quality of personnel and effective leadership as critical to building a professional, motivated and mission-ready force.

According to him, my command philosophy places emphasis on accountability, professionalism and personnel welfare as key enablers of a highly professional and operationally effective navy committed to excellent service to Nigeria.

The naval chief stressed that effective leadership went beyond directing personnel or managing resources, adding that leaders must create the conditions for their people to understand the mission, take responsibility and remain inspired to give their best in service.

“The fellowship is a reminder that leadership is a continuous journey of learning, reflection and service.

“So this recognition will further strengthen my resolve to uphold the values of professionalism, ethical leadership and service,” he said.

Abbas also acknowledged NIM (Chartered) for its enduring role in promoting sound management practices and developing leaders across the public and private sectors in support of national development.

He reaffirmed the importance of purposeful leadership in building strong institutions, stressing that the true measure of leadership laid in the ability to leave people, institutions and the nation better than they were found.

 

(NAN)