The Chief of Personnel Management, Nigerian Army, Major General Yakubu Yahaya, has called for greater efficiency and the effective use of technology in office management by Army clerks.
He made the remarks during the 2024 Chief Clerks Convention, organised by the Personnel Management Army Headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Major General Yahaya underscored the critical role played by Chief Clerks across the Nigerian Army’s formations, establishments, and units, stressing the need for them to stay abreast of the latest best practices in office management, particularly in addressing emerging trends and cyber threats.
The theme of the convention, “Enhancing the Capacity of Nigerian Army Chief Clerks in Office Management Through Effective Employment of Information and Computer Technology,” was described as apt by the Army chief, given the increasing relevance of technology in administrative processes.
Declaring the convention open, he said, “Considering the vital roles that Chief Clerks play in our formation headquarters, establishments, and units, the importance of the Chief Clerks Convention cannot be over-emphasised. This is particularly so as we continue to navigate the ever-changing office management operating landscape, which demands that we stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and techniques in line with emerging trends. ”
He highlighted the growing use of information and computer technology in daily office activities, as well as the accompanying cyber threats, as reasons for the continuous training of clerks.
He urged participants to actively engage in the sessions, assuring them that valuable suggestions and contributions would be considered for implementation.
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, in his welcome address, described the convention as a platform to enhance professionalism and responsiveness for optimal performance.
He noted that the theme reflects the Army’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved productivity, urging participants to contribute meaningfully to discussions, particularly on mitigating risks associated with social media, streamlining record management, and supporting career planning and professional development.
“This gathering provides an opportunity to identify lapses in the administrative structure and proffer solutions to streamline processes,” he said, encouraging clerks to take full advantage of the convention to improve their skills.
The convention is expected to equip clerks with innovative techniques in data management, clerical duties, and office organisation, ensuring their roles remain relevant in the evolving operational landscape.
