The Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN) is intensifying efforts in a bid to reduce the rate of abandoned projects in the country.
Speaking at a stakeholders conference in Abuja, the Registrar of CIPMN, Mr Henry Mbadiwe, stressed the need to enforce certification compliance among project managers in Nigeria as a measure to ensure projects are completed timely in Nigeria.
He emphasised that certified project managers are critical in reducing the rate of failed and abandoned projects in the country.
“Every project manager, including foreign nationals, must regularise their certifications within 12 months of commencing work in Nigeria.
“Non-compliance is unacceptable. Starting 2025, we will intensify enforcement to ensure that every project, regardless of the sector, is delivered by certified professionals,” Mbadiwe said.
According to him, enforcing certification laws will help deliver value to Nigerians, improve project execution, and ensure accountability in sectors such as construction, healthcare, and financial services, among others.
Also speaking, the Chairman of CIPMN, Mr. Olabode Afolayan, reiterated the challenges posed by non-professionals managing projects in Nigeria, citing significant losses in time, resources, and lives.
“Going around the country, you see the impact of unqualified individuals managing projects. It is evident in the poorly executed projects we encounter daily.
“However, with the dynamic leadership of the council, we are determined to enforce existing laws and ensure square pegs are in square holes,” Okafor said.
He called for collaborative efforts and sensitisation programs to educate stakeholders on the importance of certification in delivering impactful projects.
On his part, the Director of ICT with the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Mr Michael Popoola, restated the role of project management in mitigating risks and ensuring adaptability, particularly in the pension industry.
“Project management principles, especially agile methodologies, are essential for managing uncertainties and delivering results.
“Continuous upskilling and collaboration between institutions and the government are key to achieving the desired outcomes,” Michael said.
Stakeholders at the conference agreed that fostering collaboration, enforcing certification laws, and promoting capacity-building initiatives are pivotal steps toward ensuring successful project delivery across Nigeria.
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