By Ibironke Ariyo
The Chief Provost, Corporate Institute of Strategic Research, (CISR), Prof. Mohammed Bangura, has said that strategic research is a key component of effective leadership.
Bangura made the observation during the closing ceremony of the three-day IRB International Annual Conference in Abuja on Saturday, themed: “Global Strategic Research: A New Catalyst for Leadership”.
He said research is a critical tool for addressing the complex leadership challenges facing the world.
The Chancellor of the IRB, represented by the Dean of the Institute, Dr. Victoria Okon said the annual event brought together professionals from diverse fields to discuss strategic research and leadership.
He said the theme of the 2024 Congress was particularly poignant given that Nigeria was living in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts and an evolving economic landscape.
He said: “This meeting represents an important milestone in our shared journey to advance strategic excellence and thought leadership.”
“Strategic research is essential for effective leadership. Provides leaders with the knowledge and insights they need to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies to achieve their goals.
“Strategic research has never been more important in defining the future of organizations and societies. Additionally, it offers professionals a platform to share their knowledge and experiences and develop innovative solutions to leadership challenges.
“The IRB Convention aims to promote strategic research as a catalyst for effective leadership and provide a forum for discussion and collaboration among professionals.
“We have people from all walks of life.
“As a leader, if you don’t properly focus on what you need to make your organization successful, you won’t have the opportunity to achieve results,” he said.
Dr. Ahmed Ikaka, Chairman of the CSIR Advisory Board, also highlighted the need for strategic research to address global challenges and promote human development.
Ikaka said the institute is committed to promoting strategic research in all areas of human endeavor, including education, media, technology and industry.
He expressed concern about the decline of research culture, especially among young people, and the reliance on outdated research projects and articles.
He said the institute aims to raise awareness around the world about the importance of strategic research in addressing global challenges and promoting human development.
“Research must be strategic and goal-oriented, with a clear definition of goals and objectives.
“The program is here, we started three days ago and today is the culmination of the program that analyzes the global challenges we face.
“The philosophy or general understanding of the Institute is that in-depth research is carried out in all areas of human endeavor, be it education, media practices, technology, industry or any other field.
“The institute is committed to helping shape the way we bring learning to life and to integrating a serious research component into all areas of human endeavour,” he said.
Also, Dr. Olukemi Akinmusire, a renowned business consultant and CISR member, stressed the need for Nigeria to undertake strategic research to drive development.
He said Nigeria is yet to realize the full potential of research.
He urged policymakers, business leaders and individuals to prioritize research as a tool to promote development and growth.
Akinmusire stressed the importance of research in informing policy decisions and promoting economic growth.
She believes that research informs policy decisions, promotes a data-driven economy and addresses critical issues such as mental health. Research also supports strategic planning by providing data and information that informs strategic decisions.
“Research enhances the education sector by involving students in the research process and boosts economic growth by providing evidence-based solutions to economic challenges,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CISR congress, which was attended by professionals from all over the world, featured a series of presentations, panel discussions and workshops on strategic research and leadership.
