By Emmanuel Emeka
The Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), Maitama Chapter, in collaboration with Baze University, has urged students and young graduates to intentionally develop emotional intelligence, financial discipline, professional identity and workplace skills to ease their transition from the academic environment into the world of work.
The call was made on Tuesday during a workshop titled “Transitioning from the Academic World to the World of Work,” held at Auditorium C of Baze University, Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of Baze University, Prof. Abiodun Adeyemi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Osita Njidi, described the initiative as timely, noting that the demands of today’s workplace extend beyond academic qualifications.
He commended the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), Maitama Chapter, for creating a platform that prepares students with the practical knowledge, leadership mindset and professional competencies required to succeed after graduation.
Delivering one of the keynote presentations, Mrs. Christie Eleojo Adejoh, FNIM, stressed that emotional intelligence remains one of the most valuable assets professionals can possess in today’s workplace.
Speaking on the topic, “Emotional Intelligence: Catalyst for Synergy in the Workplace,” she said organisations increasingly value employees who can effectively manage emotions, build healthy relationships, communicate clearly and work collaboratively.
According to her, technical competence alone is no longer sufficient for career success, as professionals must also demonstrate empathy, resilience, self-awareness and interpersonal skills to thrive in increasingly dynamic work environments.
She urged students to begin cultivating emotional intelligence before entering the labour market, noting that emotional maturity often distinguishes exceptional professionals from average performers.
Earlier, Babatunde Olumuyiwa Oresanya, MNIM, who spoke on “Emotional and Financial Management,” advised participants to cultivate healthy emotional habits alongside prudent financial management.
He warned young people against impulsive spending, poor financial decisions and emotional instability, stressing that long-term career success depends not only on earning income but also on managing resources wisely while maintaining emotional balance under pressure.
On his part, Dr. Obinna F. Nwachukwu, FNIM, who presented a paper on “Building Your Professional Identity and Early Network,” encouraged participants to deliberately build their personal brands from their undergraduate years.
He advised students to develop strong professional networks, embrace mentorship opportunities and maintain integrity, noting that career advancement is often driven by reputation, relationships and continuous learning rather than academic certificates alone.
The workshop also featured a presentation by Dr. Shittu H. Shaibu, D.Sc. (Honoris Causa), FNIM, who joined other resource persons in discussing strategies for preparing young people for the realities of the modern workplace.
Throughout the interactive sessions, speakers agreed that while academic excellence remains important, employers increasingly seek graduates who possess communication skills, adaptability, leadership qualities, emotional intelligence and problem-solving abilities.
Participants were encouraged to embrace lifelong learning, remain adaptable to changing workplace realities and continuously invest in personal and professional development.
The workshop formed part of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), Maitama Chapter’s commitment to strengthening graduate employability by exposing students to practical workplace expectations before entering the labour market.
Held in partnership with Baze University, the event brought together management professionals, academics, industry experts and students for robust discussions on equipping the next generation of Nigerian professionals with the competencies needed to succeed in an evolving global economy.
