Called to serve

I'm not sure whether it's ageing or what, but as life has been happening, I've felt less inclined to speak or write. I thought: 'What will I say that experience won't unravel?' However, I'm glad for recent inspirations. Even if I don't write anything, I can post something 'educational' or 'professional' that I've worked on.

From my previous job, I struggled to write economic research papers alone because I often got stuck in the methodology section. It really bothered me because I considered it an essential aspect of my job as an economist, the ability to back recommendations with empirical evidence. I have joint publications with colleagues, but I wanted to have the independent ability to develop a research question and work on it from start to finish alone. Additionally, given the adverse effects of policies in the country and the poor implementation strategies, a good way to inform policymakers that their approach is not efficient is to present an alternative fact backed by high-quality empirical research. This would require gaining skills in relevant econometric techniques, which have been challenging for me to develop while carrying out other core aspects of my job. 

Consequently, when an opportunity arose, I decided to take some time off work to focus on full-time research. However, I felt self-doubt, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future (especially regarding funding for the proposed research project), which was further exacerbated by other personal struggles and the unfortunate confirmation that certain people I was trying to trust were not reliable (maybe not done intentionally as they had strong motives to satisfy their personal interests; well, I hope it works out for them). 

Thanks be to God who shows mercy, I'm finding encouragement. 

TY Bello's 'Heaven has come' deluxe album has been my companion. All the songs connect so profoundly, and you just feel her 'oneness' with God. I pray to work with her someday on a project. 

The 24th WIMBIZ conference, held on November 6-7, 2025, was another source of encouragement. I joined virtually; thankfully, it was free for life members. The positive energy from the hosts, the plenary/fireside chat chairs, the speakers, and the crowd was infectious. It was also touching to hear speakers share their personal experiences, especially as they connected them to the conference theme: OWN (Own your story, walk in power, and nurture the future). The conference chairperson, Hon. Justice Amina Augie, spoke about her recent health struggle, how it can suddenly make one feel powerless after being powerful for a long time, and how setbacks should not stop anyone from courageously forging ahead. Ms Arunma Oteh also shared how the 4Cs — Character, Compassion, Competence, and Courage — have been her guiding principles in life. Ms Sola Adesakin, advising on the wealth playbook, suggested that one should monetise their passion, proficiency, partnerships, past experiences, and potential. It was great to have Mr Taiwo Oyedele spend quality time discussing the new tax law, and Mr Temi Popoola speak on actions the Nigerian Exchange Group has taken to improve women's representation in the boardroom. I was particularly impressed by the questions and comments that arose following these discussions. It was also interesting to learn about a new term, 'protirement', and how panel members navigated it. To crown it all, the debate on 'Access vs Certification: which breaks barriers?' was so interesting to watch. Both teams, led by Dr Glory Edozien and Toyosi Etim-Effiong, were convincing and entertaining.

I'm amazed I've written this much about the conference. Guess my report-writing skills, developed throughout my career, are deeply ingrained.

Anyway, the message in my heart after all these happenings is that I've been called to serve. I've been given so much and been privileged to be heavily invested in, so it's my turn to give back. Even though I feel I need to enhance my skills for greater impact, I must do so from a place of surrender to God's will. He'll direct and lead me on how to approach it, not by worrying or forcing things to happen. So, I'm learning what it means to surrender and hope to provide updates as God takes control.