Today is December 30, 2023, and there is approximately 48 hours left in the year. It’s time for me to reflect on the year as it draws to a close. While I understand that the excitement often associated with transitioning from one year to another is largely psychological, and that January 1, 2024, holds no more inherent significance than December 4, 2023, I still find value in looking back and retrospecting on the year that’s nearing its end on the Gregorian calendar.
Sincerely, it’s been an incredible year of growth, achievement, and significant milestones, notwithstanding its array of challenges—financial, career-related, and in life in general. Nonetheless, I am grateful to the One in whose hands my soul rests, as this year has marked several crucial milestones in my career and life.
It was the year I completed a decade as a university lecturer in the academic realm—a journey defined by dedication, passion, and continual learning. Commemorating this milestone fills me with gratitude for the myriad of minds intertwined with mine on this journey. Reflecting, I find immense fulfillment in the career path I’ve carved as an academic, shaping lives and nurturing talents. I see a niche I’ve crafted for myself, and I’m thankful for choosing to express my expertise through teaching, research, and community service.
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Beyond the lecture halls, 2023 unfolded new chapters. A six-month expedition outside academia with Opolo Global Innovation, fostering innovation and digital skills across diverse landscapes. It was an enriching period bridging academia and industry, nurturing creativity, and cultivating groundbreaking ideas. This journey validated some of my previously held views on entrepreneurship and empowerment for future generations. It was also a phase of continual learning, re-learning, and unlearning. Whether at the Osogbo campus of Osun State University, the picturesque campus of OAU Ife, the windy, hilly roads of Otan Ayegbaju, or the agrarian community of Ifetedo, I contributed to managing stakeholders, fostering innovation, and facilitating conversations that deepened the digital economy.
The year also marked the completion of a deliberate five-year career roadmap—a strategic voyage navigated with purpose and online visibility, crafting a digital footprint echoing aspirations and endeavors. A journey that commenced in 2018 and concluded in 2023. At its inception, it seemed an insurmountable task. Reflecting on the end of this personal 5-year calendar, I am nothing but grateful to my Creator, whose silent guidance steered me toward good and shielded me from harm. I’ve checked all the boxes in the 5-year targets, moving now onto another 5-year journey.
In 2023, a collaborative highlight emerged in initiating the inaugural LinkedIn Local programme in Osogbo—a platform fostering connections, conversations, and community growth, close to my heart. Around 2019 or thereabouts, recognizing the benefits of maintaining a presence on LinkedIn, I felt the need to bring this conversation to my locality. However, I couldn’t materialize that dream until I embraced the youthful energy and vibrancy of Lukman Adeoti, who eventually brought us LinkedIn Local Osogbo 2023. I’m proud of what he and his team are doing to pave the way for a community-driven beneficial digital economy. I promise more support in 2024.
Personal and academic triumph intertwined in 2023 with the culmination of my Ph.D. journey—a result of years of dedication, research, and unwavering perseverance. The final graduation, a testament to resilience and scholarly pursuit, occurred in November 2023.
Yet, the year didn’t conclude without an additional benefit—leading a team to secure the NASFAT grant at Fountain University. It was a collective victory—a testament to collaborative efforts, shared visions, and the power of teamwork.
As I reflect on 2023, it’s a year replete with diverse experiences, each thread contributing to the vibrant fabric of growth, impact, and meaningful connections. Here’s to embracing the lessons learned, cherishing the victories, and eagerly anticipating the untold narratives of the coming chapters. Cheers to the year that was, and to the unwritten stories waiting to unfold in the years ahead.
I express gratitude to the team of supporters who ensured the year was fruitful for me. Special thanks to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, for His mercies, grace, and protection. I also extend gratitude to my friend and business partner, Mutiu Iyanda, for being the driving force behind the 2018 calendar. I’m pleased to see how we’ve collectively progressed in our individual and collective lives.
To my mentors—Prof Ayo Ojebode, Dr. Emmanuel Mogaji, Dr. Olusegun Fariudeen Liadi, Prof. Nnamdi Madichie, Prof. Nduibisi Ekekwe, Prof. Saheed Aderinto, Dr. Segun Aina, and others, young and old, whose guidance continues to illuminate my path, I say a big thank you. To the Fountain University community, starting from my Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, the Registrar, Mr. Sheriff Adenekan, my HOD, Dr. Azeez Olusegun Sanni, Ridwa Kolawole, Akeem Azeez, Dr. Adegbenga Raheem Akintunde, and others, may the Good Lord preserve our lives beyond 2024. Finally, to all the individuals I worked with at Opolo Global—Femi Kalejaiye, Deji Ajani, Femi Ajayi, Dr. Shukurat Bello, Michael Oyalana, Michael Ewuola, Kehinde Ogunmiloro, Ogunsakin, and others, I extend a heartfelt thank you. I look forward to witnessing all of you chasing your dreams in 2024.
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