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 remark at the closing ceremony of of the CISR three-day annual international convention on Saturday in Abuja with theme: “Global Strategic Research: A Novel Catalyst in Leadership,”.
He said that research was a crucial tool in addressing complex leadership challenges facing the world.
The CISR provost, who was represented by the institute’s Registrar, Dr Victoria Okon, n said the annual event brought together professionals from various fields to discuss strategic research and leadership.
He said that the theme of the year 2024 convention theme was particularly poignant as Nigeria navigated an era characterised by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and evolving economic landscapes.
He said “this gathering marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards fostering strategic excellence and innovative leadership.
“Strategic research is key to achieving effective leadership. It provides leaders with the knowledge and insights they need to make informed decisions, and to develop effective strategies for achieving their goals.
“Strategic research has never been more critical in shaping the future of organisations and societies alike. It also provides a platform for professionals to share knowledge and expertise, and to develop innovative solutions to leadership challenges.
“The CISR convention is designed to promote strategic research as a catalyst for effective leadership, and to provide a forum for discussion and collaboration among professionals.
“We have people from all walks of life.
“If you as a leader, do not have the proper focus on what you need for your organisation to succeed, there is no way you can get the results,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Board of Advisors, CSIR, Dr Ahmed Ikaka called for the need for strategic research to address global challenges and promote human development.
Ikaka said that the institute was committed to promoting strategic research in all areas of human endeavour, including education, media, technology, and industry.
He expressed concern over the decline in research culture, particularly among young people, and the reliance on outdated projects and research papers.
He said that the institute aims to reawaken the world to the importance of strategic research in addressing global challenges and promoting human development.
“Research must be strategic and purpose-driven, with a clear definition of goals and objectives.
“As the programme is going on here, we started three days ago and today is the climax of the programme looking at the global challenges that we have.
“The general philosophy or understanding of the Institute is that, there is a depth of research in all areas of human endeavor, whether you look at education, you look at media practise, you look at technology, you look at industry or everywhere.
“The institute is all out to assist, on how we’ll be able to bring life to learning and how we’re going to integrate a component of serious research in every area of human endeavour,”he said.
Also, Dr Olukemi Akinmusire, a renowned management consultant and fellow of the CISR also emphasised the need for Nigeria to embrace strategic research to drive development.
She said that Nigeria has yet to utilise research to its full potential.
She urged policymakers, business leaders, and individuals to prioritise research as a tool for driving development and growth.
Akinmusire highlighted the importance of research in informing policy decisions and driving economic growth.
According to her, research informs policy decisions, promotes a data-driven economy, and addresses critical issues such as mental health and research supports strategic planning by providing data and insights that inform strategic decisions.
“Research improves the education sector by making students part of the research process, and enhances economic growth by providing evidence-based solutions to economic challenges,”she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CISR convention, which is being attended by professionals from around the world, featured a range of presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on strategic research and leadership.
