LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN THE NIGERIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS

Abstract

The concept of managerial leadership permeates the theory and practice of work organizations. While most definitions of leadership reflect the assumption that leadership involves a process whereby an individual exerts influence upon others in an organizational context, leadership is by nature dialectical. It is socially constructed through the interaction of both leaders and followers. Strategic planning and management are more than a set of managerial tools. They constitute a mind-set, an approach that involves looking at the changes in the internal and external environment that confront the Chairman and other members of the executive council of a LGC. By a strategic approach to HRM, we are referring to a managerial process requiring human resource policies and practices to be linked with the strategic objectives of the organization.

This paper critically examines the concept of managerial leadership and  Strategic Human Resource Management (SRHM). It appraises the strategic management process and factors affecting strategy in the Nigerian Local Government Councils. It concludes with a simple example of SHRM using SWOT analysis. Crafting, implementing and monitoring an effective strategy will assist LGCs to become very successful and stay successful.

KEY WORDS: Leadership; Strategy; Human Resource Management; Strategic Human

Resource Management (SHRM); Local Government Councils; SWOT

Analysis.