My Secondment Journey

As I embarked on this transformative journey of secondment, I found myself standing at the crossroads of professional development and personal growth. This opportunity arose when my home organization, Ikeja Electric, recognized the potential for cross-pollination of ideas and skills between our team and the prestigious Egbin Power. With an initial duration of 3 months, this secondment has become a pivotal chapter in my career, offering a chance to immerse myself in a new environment, learn from industry leaders, and contribute to the power generation that Egbin Power is renowned for.

From the outset, my expectations were high, yet purposefully open-ended. The primary goal was to harness the expertise of both organizations, fostering a symbiotic relationship that would elevate our collective capabilities. With a directive to not only share my knowledge but also absorb the best practices of Egbin, I embarked on this journey with an eager heart and an inquisitive mind.

While I knew the road ahead would be challenging, I also understood that challenges are the crucible in which personal and professional growth are forged. In this narrative, I invite you to join me on a voyage through my secondment experience. I'll recount the moments of revelation, hurdles overcome, and the profound transformations that have unfolded along the way. Together, we'll explore how this year of secondment has shaped my perspectives, enriched my skill set, and set the stage for a promising future.

The Beginning

Initial Feelings and Thoughts:

As I set foot into the bright and bustling compound of Egbin for the first time, a mix of excitement and nervousness coursed through me. The anticipation of the unknown lay heavily on my shoulders. This secondment was not just a new chapter but an entirely different book in my career. The air was both exhilarating and intimidating. I couldn't help but wonder if I was ready for the challenges that awaited.

The Circumstances That Led to Secondment:

The genesis of this secondment was rooted in a strategic alliance between Both companies's Innovations, driven by a shared commitment to Bringing energy to life responsibly. As our respective organizations sought to merge their expertise and foster innovation, I applied as I felt I was the right candidate for the secondment opportunity.

Choosing to seize this opportunity was, without a doubt, a pivotal decision. I saw it as a chance to broaden my horizons, to move beyond my comfort zone, and to contribute to a cause I deeply believed in. Moreover, it was an opportunity to immerse myself in the dynamic world of power generation, where they were pioneering solutions that had the potential to reshape the power industry in Nigeria. It was an offer I couldn't refuse.

Challenges and Uncertainties:

Yet, as I settled into my new desk and met my colleagues, a wave of uncertainty washed over me. Would I be able to keep up with their pace? Could I adapt to a different corporate culture? These questions gnawed at me in those initial days. The fear of not meeting the high expectations weighed.

heavily on my mind. Moreover, the physical separation from my home organization, colleagues, and familiar routines added a layer of complexity to my adjustment.

In these early moments of my secondment journey, I was stepping into uncharted territory, but I was armed with determination, a willingness to learn, and the belief that this challenge was an opportunity for profound personal and professional growth.

The First Few Days:

The first day at Egbin was a whirlwind of introductions and onboarding. I was greeted with warm smiles and a palpable sense of camaraderie as I met my new colleagues. The openness and friendliness of the team put me at ease, helping to alleviate the jitters that had accompanied me on my first day. The onboarding process was meticulously organized, and the mention of safety could not be over-emphasized.

The People and the Environment:

The people I met at Egbin were a diverse mix of talents and backgrounds. Engineers, environmental scientists, designers, and business strategists came together in a symphony of expertise. Each person I encountered was passionate about their work, and the collective dedication to sustainability was palpable. Conversations flowed freely across departments, and I quickly realized that collaboration was at the heart of their culture.

The physical environment was a testament to Egin’s' commitment to sustainability. Zebra crossings and walkways were strictly adhered to, recycling bins were strategically placed throughout the office, and a vertical garden provided a soothing backdrop to our workspace. The message was clear: we were not just talking the talk; we were walking the walk when it came to safety and environmental responsibility.

Surprises and Insights:

One of the most delightful surprises during those initial weeks was the level of autonomy and trust afforded to employees. It was a culture of empowerment where ideas were encouraged to flourish. In meetings, everyone's voice was not only heard but valued. This atmosphere of trust not only boosted my confidence but also nurtured my creativity.

I was also struck by the passion of my colleagues. The way they discussed issues and resolutions about business; is a deep-rooted belief system. Their commitment to finding innovative solutions to downtimes was inspiring. I quickly realized that this secondment was not just about acquiring new skills but about adopting a new mindset.

Moreover, the integration of work and wellness surprised me. Egbin's power placed a significant emphasis on employee well-being. Walk to work, the Egbin walkathon challenge and even an onsite clinic for relaxation were all part of the daily routine. This holistic approach to work-life balance made me reevaluate my priorities and the importance of maintaining a healthy work environment.

As the days turned into weeks, I felt myself becoming an integral part of the Egbon Power family. The initial apprehensions had given way to a sense of belonging, and I was ready to dive headfirst into the exciting projects that awaited me in this dynamic organization.

Specific Experiences and Projects:

During my secondment at Egbin, I was fortunate to be involved in several projects that left an indelible mark on my professional journey. One such project was the overhauling of their network and firewall architecture.

Another memorable experience was my involvement in the change of their boardroom meeting equipment.

Skills Developed and Knowledge Gained:

My time at Egbin has been a continuous learning curve. I've honed my project management skills, learned to navigate complex interdisciplinary collaborations, and developed a keen understanding of network and firewall solutions.

Mentors and Colleagues:

Throughout this journey, I've had the privilege of working alongside brilliant minds and compassionate hearts. Osamuyi Asemota , my Team lead, played a pivotal role in shaping my secondment experience. His guidance and unwavering support were instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the organization and the projects I was involved in. His mentorship went beyond professional development; it was a lesson in leadership and empathy.

Among my colleagues, Olamilekan Fatosa, MSc , Lucy Jonathan , Tomisin Akinyinka , and Joel oguntoye stand out as a source of inspiration. their innovative thinking and boundless curiosity were infectious. their ability to envision solutions where others saw obstacles was a trait I aspired to cultivate. I owe much of my growth in creative problem-solving to their collaborative experiences of them.

Amid these exceptional individuals, I found a nurturing environment where knowledge-sharing was not just encouraged but celebrated. It was a culture that fostered growth, and I am profoundly grateful to the mentors and colleagues who have influenced my journey, molding me into a more skilled, empathetic, and forward-thinking professional.

Personal Growth

Impact on Personal and Professional Development:

This secondment at Egbin has been nothing short of a crucible for personal and professional growth. It has pushed the boundaries of my capabilities, and the impact on my development has been profound. On a professional level, I've seen my skill set expand exponentially. I've gained valuable competencies These newfound skills have not only made me a more versatile professional but have also positioned me as a resource within my home organization, Ikeja Electric.

Changes in Perspective, Values, and Aspirations:

One of the most significant shifts during this secondment has been a change in my perspective. I've come to see challenges as opportunities and setbacks as stepping stones. My value system has become more aligned with the principles of sustainability, not just in the professional sphere but also in my personal life.

In terms of career aspirations, this secondment has expanded my horizons. It's no longer about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about making a meaningful impact.? I've realized that success is not merely measured by personal achievement but by the positive influence, we have on the world around us.

Lessons About Myself:

Perhaps the most introspective aspect of this journey has been the lessons I've learned about myself. I've discovered a resilience within me that thrives in the face of challenges. I've learned to embrace uncertainty and navigate uncharted waters with confidence. The ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments has become a defining trait, one that I cherish.

Moreover, I've uncovered a passion for mentorship and knowledge-sharing. Just as I benefited from the guidance of mentors during this secondment, I now aspire to pay it forward and nurture the growth of others. It's a realization that my journey is not just about personal development but also about contributing to the growth of those around me.

In closing, this secondment has been a transformative chapter, a period of immense personal and professional growth. It's a journey that has redefined my values, aspirations, and understanding of sustainability. It's a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new challenges, for it's in those moments of discomfort that we discover the true extent of our potential.