The Baton Has Been Passed!, By Saleh Shehu Ashaka
I am thrilled to announce that after almost two years of leading the team in Nigeria, I am moving on to take on an exciting new challenge. As I prepare for this next chapter, I find myself overwhelmed with mixed emotions as I bid farewell to my incredible colleagues in Nigeria.
Reflecting on our journey, I am filled with gratitude as I think about the struggles and triumphs we’ve faced together. We’ve shared so many fun moments and have grown tremendously as professionals, strengthening our sector along the way. Despite the headwinds we’ve encountered, we achieved extraordinary results—4 Global and 6 Regional awards that have put Nigeria on the world map. This isn’t just a testament to our hard work but to the spirit of teamwork and perseverance that defines us!
For me, this has been the longest assignment of my career, and many have asked how I maintained my composure and continued striving for excellence, even when faced with challenges and frustrations. The answer lies in finding the connection between what we do at work and our true purpose. When you discover that link, your work becomes not just a job, but a fulfilling passion that fuels your energy.
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This past year has also been a personal battle with my health, reminding me of the importance of resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned so much from everyone around me—my team, peers, and leaders. These daily lessons have refreshed my perspective and provided invaluable insights. I encourage each of you to embrace continuous learning; it unlocks opportunities and helps you stand out in your role.
Building a strong team has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my career. Together, we have accomplished remarkable things, and I am deeply thankful to Akbar Khan for giving me the freedom and support to thrive, as well as to the entire Sub-Saharan Africa leadership team, a truly high-performance group.
As I prepare to hand over the reins to one of Nigeria’s most exceptional leaders, Jane Smith, I do so with confidence. Jane is not only a transformational leader with an impressive track record of performance, but she is also someone who inspires those around her. Under her leadership and with the unwavering support of our incredible team, I am certain that the Nigerian flag will continue to fly high.
Thank you all for being such an important part of my journey. While I’m excited for what’s next, leaving this team is bittersweet. I will carry the memories we’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned with me always.
With heartfelt appreciation,
