Govt Needs to Create Enabling Environment to Enhance Productivity – Abidemi Adeyemo

Abidemi Adeyemo is a productivity expert whose expertise has earned her widespread recognition. With an academic foundation in History and International Studies from Lagos State University Ojo, she has harnessed her analytical and strategic skills to drive exceptional results in various sectors.

Her pursuit of higher education led her to Lagos State University Ojo, where she completed her degree in History and International Studies in 2007. This academic background provided her with a broad perspective on organizational dynamics and strategic thinking, which would later become instrumental in her career.

And upon graduation, Adeyemo joined the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government as an administrative officer. During her tenure from 2007 to 2010, she played a pivotal role in optimizing administrative processes and enhancing operational efficiency. Her innovative solutions and dedication significantly improved the local government’s productivity, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in the private sector.

Driven by a passion for productivity and a desire to impact businesses on a larger scale, she transitioned to entrepreneurship in 2010. She founded her productivity consultancy, where she applied her expertise to help organizations streamline their operations, reduce inefficiencies, and achieve outstanding results.

A fellow, Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management (IPBIM) her contributions to productivity have been transformative for numerous businesses. Her clients consistently report substantial improvements in efficiency and profitability, underscoring the effectiveness of her methodologies.

So for the productivity expert what does productivity means? According to her, productivity is achieving desired outcomes efficiently. It’s about maximizing output while minimizing wasted effort.”

Adeyemo believed that there is a great difference between efficiency and effectiveness. To her, “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things. Both matter for productivity.”

Armed with this knowledge ,how does she believe Nigeria’s educational system impacts overall national productivity? Nigeria’s educational system plays a critical role in shaping our workforce. When education emphasizes practical skills, critical thinking, and adaptability, it directly contributes to a more productive and innovative workforce. However, we need reforms to align curricula with industry needs.” She revealed.

Are there strategies organizations can adopt to enhance productivity within their workforce? Adeyemo advised that organizations should invest in employee training, create clear performance metrics, and foster a positive work environment. Encouraging collaboration, recognizing achievements, and promoting work-life balance all contribute to higher productivity.”

So how can Nigeria address the productivity gap between formal and informal sectors?

“We must recognize the informal sector’s contributions and provide support. Formalizing informal businesses, improving access to credit, and offering training programs can bridge the gap and boost overall productivity.” She disclosed.

Does technology has any role to play in improving national productivity? ‘Technology is a game-changer. From digital infrastructure to automation, it streamlines processes, reduces costs, and enhances efficiency. Nigeria must invest in digital literacy and infrastructure to fully harness its potential.”

So as a productivity expert, what policies would she recommend to the Nigerian government for enhancing national productivity?

“First, prioritize education and vocational training. Second, create an enabling business environment by reducing bureaucracy and improving infrastructure. Third, promote research and innovation. Finally, encourage public-private partnerships for sustainable growth.”

Apart from productivity on the national and global outlook, Adeyemo, a fellow, Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management (IPBIM) added that one can improve personal productivity in life.

These she highlighted to include; “Prioritize self-care, set clear goals, and learn time management techniques. Consistent routines matter.”

She also disclosed that some ways to track progress at work are;use KPIs, project management tools, and regular check-ins. Data-driven insights guide improvements among others.

So what is her approach to employee engagement and how would she describe a typical working day in your current role?? “I foster open communication, recognize achievements, and provide growth opportunities. Engaged employees are more productive. Also,my typical day starts with a structured morning routine. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. I allocate focused blocks of time for deep work, avoiding distractions. Regular breaks keep me refreshed.”

How does she prioritize her tasks and focus in a distracting environment?

“I use the Eisenhower Matrix. Urgent and important tasks come first, followed by important but non-urgent ones. I delegate or eliminate less important tasks.”And I create a dedicated workspace, use noise-canceling headphones, and set specific work hours. Pomodoro technique helps me maintain focus.”