The Independent Civil Servant

From an early age, I was captivated by the idea of leadership. I admired leaders and yearned to be one myself. Yet, despite my passion, the journey to leadership was anything but straightforward. This is my story of resilience and determination as I navigated the ups and downs to become an independent civil servant.

A Humble Start

My dream of leading began in primary school. Out of a class of six, I was one of the two students not chosen to be a prefect. It stung, but the fire within me to lead never extinguished. Moving on to secondary school, I faced another setback; my class teacher didn't nominate me for prefectship. These early disappointments were hard to swallow, but they didn't deter me.

In my second year at university, I decided to lobby for a position on the Student Union Government Representative Council. Despite my efforts, I lost. Undeterred, I contested for the role of Social Director of my department and won. This victory was a turning point. I organized our first association workshops, blending seminars, awards, and social events into an unforgettable experience. This success was a taste of what leadership could be, and it was exhilarating.

The Turning Point

My third year marked a significant shift. I was unanimously nominated as the Departmental Representative at the Student Union Government Representative Council. This position wasn't just a title; it was an opportunity to make real change. One of my proudest achievements was serving as the Secretary of the Constitution Review Committee. We drafted and passed the first-ever house rules of the council, laying the foundation for fair and transparent governance.

I also took on the role of Secretary of the Departmental Electoral Committee, further solidifying my leadership within the student community. Additionally, I became a constituency leader for the Indigenous Association of Ogun State Students, connecting me with a broader network of peers. Around this time, I co-founded the Enactus FUOYE chapter. As the Technical and Media Lead, I helped establish our presence on social media platforms like X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. We initiated impactful projects like plastic recycling and efficient cassava processing, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

Expanding Horizons

In my fourth year, a new opportunity beckoned. I was selected as a Millennium Campus Network (MCN) fellow, joining a global community of young leaders. Alongside Seyi Babalola, I executed the “Education for All” project, raising funds to send 50 children from the Durunmi IDP camp in Abuja to school. This project wasn't just a fellowship requirement; it was a deeply personal mission that underscored my commitment to education and social equity.

Winning the election as Senate President of the Fifth Assembly Student Union Government was a high point. This role brought its own set of challenges and triumphs. One notable achievement was negotiating with university management to complete and furnish the student union building, a long-standing student need. Successfully commissioning the building was a significant milestone in my tenure.

During the pandemic, my innovative spirit led to the creation of the Conspro initiative, which trained over 5000 students in various digital and soft skills. It was a lifeline for many during a challenging time.

Facing Adversity and Emerging Stronger

However, my leadership journey was not without trials. As Senate President, I faced an unconstitutional suspension orchestrated by a discontented few. This experience was a harsh lesson in governance and resilience. Eventually, I was reinstated, emerging stronger and wiser, with a profound understanding of inclusive and extensive governance.

My steadfast leadership was recognized, and I was nominated as the Southwest Deputy Zonal Coordinator for the Nigerian Student Legislative Council (NSLC). Later, I became the second Southwest Coordinator. My influence continued to grow, touching more lives and driving more change.

Beyond University: A Commitment to Community

Even after university, my dedication to public service remained unwavering. During my national service year, I was appointed State Coordinator for Project Lift in Osun State, aiming to fund three community projects. This role allowed me to continue my mission of making tangible differences in communities, a true testament to my enduring commitment to service.

Conclusion

My journey as an independent civil servant is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. From early setbacks to significant leadership roles, my story is a powerful reminder that true leadership is about perseverance and the positive impact one can have on others.

In a world that often seems divided and uncertain, I hope my story offers a beacon of hope. Through dedication, innovation, and empathy, I have proven that one person can indeed make a significant impact. My journey is an inspiration, illustrating that with determination and heart, any obstacle can be overcome, and every dream can become a reality.

Onitilo Eniola Emmanuel

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