Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN) has certified and inducted 500 new members, bringing the total number of certified and licensed project managers in the country to over 1,000.
The induction ceremony held in Abuja, coincided with the conclusion of the two-day 2024 Annual Project Management Conference and underscored the institute’s ongoing efforts to professionalise project management in Nigeria.
At the event, CIPMN registrar, Henry Mbadiwe, described the milestone as significant but noted that many projects across the country are still being managed by uncertified individuals.
“Inducting 500 members is a significant step, but it’s only a fraction of what we aim to achieve,” Mbadiwe said. “We have various development programmes designed to equip our members with practical skills.”
He called on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise the certification of their project managers, reiterating the institute’s ambitious goal of certifying and licensing 5,000 project managers by 2026.
Mbadiwe also highlighted the growing importance of project management beyond traditional fields like construction and engineering, emphasising its critical role in sectors such as healthcare, financial services, and oil and gas.
“The ability to plan, manage risks, and adapt to changes is essential for the success of any initiative,” he noted.
He further urged federal universities to establish project management departments to foster collaboration with the institute, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.
“This partnership is crucial for building a robust project management framework in Nigeria,” Mbadiwe added.