Prof. Stephen, recipient of the CIHRM Doctoral Fellowship, urges the government to prioritize Meritocracy

 By Genesis ogiri, Abuja 

The Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management, Nigeria (CIHRM), conferred it's highest prestigious Doctoral Fellowship (FCIHRM) on  professor Stephen Lazi AKhere, during its annual congress held in Abuja.

This Doctoral Fellowship award recognizes the recipient's extraordinary commitment, creativity, and resilience, inspiring others to strive for excellence. His remarkable contributions have significantly advanced Nigeria's economic growth, social development, and technological progress.

Saturday Newsway Media reports that,  Professor Stephen Lazi addressed the underutilization of Nigeria's abundant human resources, citing the government's failure to tap into this potential as a cause of brain drain. He urged the federal government to invest in these resources, promote youth inclusion, and maximize national potential by prioritizing Meritocracy and Excellence in all government appointments.

"He argues for a fundamental shift in Nigeria's human capital development strategy. He criticizes the current Character systems  of employment, regional bias, religious affiliation, nepotism, and favoritism, advocating instead for a Meritocracy approach that prioritizes selecting and employing the most capable technocrats to drive national progress.

" In the grand scheme of social ideals, meritocracy reigns as one of the most impactful principles, fostering a society where individuals rise to prominence and power based on their abilities and achievements, rather than birthright or privilege. The principle of meritocracy underscores the very foundation of a fair society, where hard work, talent, and innovation are rewarded. It is pivotal in maintaining a free and prosperous society 

" He stressed that In a true meritocracy, everyone has the chance to succeed based on their own merit regardless of background. This allows for a leveling of the playing field, granting each person the right to rise according to their abilities and efforts. A society that champions meritocracy encourages individuals to strive for their best, fostering a culture of hard work, resilience, and ambition.

" Adding that, excellence fuels innovation and economic growth. When individuals are rewarded based on their talent and efforts, they are incentivized to innovate, create, and perform at their best. This, in turn, stimulates economic growth and prosperity. History is rife with examples of societies that flourished when merit was rewarded – from the rapid technological advancements of the Silicon Valley tech giants to the economic miracles witnessed in post-war Japan and Germany.

" He advocates that government should look out for the most competent individuals to lead. In a society where leadership roles are based on merit, the most qualified, skilled, and effective leaders rise to the top. This promotes better decision-making, efficiency, and performance in both public and private sectors, leading to overall societal improvement.

Professor Stephen, a highly  dynamic, experienced and versatile professional with over two decades of multi-sectoral cognate experience , will further solidify his commitment to excellence and thought leadership in shaping Nigeria's human and political economy through this Doctoral fellowship award.

Stephen Lazi AKhere  is a professor of Political economy. He is a highly effective multicultural team leader with a proven ability to foster collaboration and communication across diverse backgrounds. His strong academic foundation is complemented by established communication and research skills. His expertise spans a broad range of fields, including: Oil & Gas Industry, Political Economy, Public Administration, Human Resources Information Systems, Office Management, Data Management, Regulatory Compliance, Process Improvement, Staff Supervision and Training, and Leadership.

Prof Stephen, while Speaking to journalists at the end of the Awards ceremony,  he argued that Nigeria's human resources is not being fully utilized, citing the mass exodus of intellectuals to European countries. He expressed gratitude for the  current administration's appointment of some technocrats to key government positions.

"He expressed optimism that Nigeria can achieve its potential and make it right, given its wealth of human resources, by abandoning political considerations and classifications and restoring the dignity of labor.

In thesame vein, he urged the private sector to respect the dignity of human labour, reject neo-colonial practices, and uphold labour laws to foster private sector growth, emphasizing that a strong workforce is essential for national development, given the large percentage of Nigerians employed in the private sector.

"He affirmed his continued commitment to advancing human resource development in Nigeria, upholding ethical standards, and promoting policies that address contemporary challenges.

Professor Lazi was among 46 distinguished individuals inducted into the Chartered Institute of Human Resources Management, Nigeria's (CIHRM) Doctoral Fellowship at the 2025 Conferment of Fellowship Award ceremony in Abuja on Saturday. The ceremony recognized their significant contributions to various fields.

Ambassador Stephen's career exemplifies dedication, expertise, and leadership in political economy and the oil and gas industry. His diverse experience in regulatory compliance, human resources, public administration, coupled with his academic achievements and professional certifications, highlights his significant contributions.

Saturday Newsway Media reports that, the prestigious event took place at National Merit Award House maitama, being 1st march, 2025, further reinforces  Stephen's commitment to excellence and his role as a thought leader in shaping the humans and political economy of the Nation.

It was a new day for human resources executives in both private and public sectors last Saturday, as the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management inducted new members into various categories of membership- doctoral fellowship, full fellowship and Associate fellowship.

Professor Stephen Lazi AKhere a dedicated knowledge seeker and visionary leader, is a role model in Nigerian political economy development. The government should leverage his vast knowledge and wisdom.