Determined to address the evolving challenges in the security landscape, ASIS International Chapter 206, Lagos has intensified efforts to recruit and empower young professionals for the security sector.
In a statement on Sunday, the group disclosed this at the 2nd edition of its conference, NextGen Conference, themed, ‘Building a secure future: career pathways and innovation for Africa’s next generation of security professionals’, held in Lagos.
The firm said the conference served as a pivotal platform for discourse strategies to empower and equip young professionals with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in the security domain.
It added that the conference aimed to bring together industry leaders, seasoned professionals, and aspiring young talents.
Speaking at the conference, the Lagos Chapter Chairman of ASIS, Mrs. Joko Olanitori, emphasised the importance of laying a solid foundation for identifying interests and acquiring sound knowledge in the security domain.
According to her, ASIS International and its chapters are reliable allies, offering a wealth of global resources, mentorship opportunities, and certification programs to prepare young professionals for the future.
“The thought leadership conference brought together industry leaders, seasoned professionals, emerging talents, and aspiring young talents to deliberate on strategies for nurturing a new breed of security experts equipped with cutting-edge skills and modern knowledge.”
ASIS Regional Vice President, Mr. Angwa Odum, emphasised the importance of grooming a new generation of security professionals who are tech-savvy and socially aware.
He underscored the need for the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cyber security into security practices to effectively address modern security challenges.
Assistant Regional Vice President of ASIS International Region 11A, Mr. Peter Okoloh, emphasised the rising interest of young professionals in diverse security fields beyond traditional physical security.
He highlighted cyber security, AI, and drone technology as burgeoning areas of interest among the youth, signaling a promising future for the industry.
Meanwhile, in his address, the keynote speaker who is also the ASIS African Regional Lead for Women-In-Security, Mrs. Tanwa Ashiru, encouraged the attendees to grow both their hard and soft skills in striving for greatness in the security sector.
Founded in 1955, ASIS International is the preeminent organization for security professionals. The body was dedicated to increasing the effectiveness and productivity of security professionals by developing educational programs and materials that address broad security interests, such as the ASIS Annual Seminar and Exhibits, as well as specific security topics. The Lagos Chapter of the group recently concluded the second edition of its NextGen Conference in Lagos.
