By Tony Nwosu
Owen Omogiafo, OON, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Plc, recently shared an inspiring reflection on the power of encouragement in shaping personal and professional success. In a post that has resonated across social media, Omogiafo recounted a pivotal early career experience and the lesson it taught him about focusing on the right voices.
“Beware of those who discourage you, and stay close to those who encourage you,” Omogiafo said, reflecting on a teaching by Pastor Poju Oyemade. “Many times, we fail to execute our dreams because we pay more attention to voices of doubt than to voices of belief.”
Omogiafo illustrated his point with a personal story from shortly after graduating from university. Having applied to Accenture, he had been shortlisted for their entrance test. During a discussion with peers, one of the top engineering graduates scoffed at his chances, saying,
“Don’t bother. You won’t pass. I wrote it and didn’t make it. You, with your Sociology degree, definitely can’t pass.”
Despite the discouragement, Omogiafo remained undeterred, crediting his mindset to surrounding himself with encouragers.
“Now, Accenture was reputed for employing only the best of the best, inviting mostly First Class or Second Class graduates. You can imagine how such a pronouncement from a high-performing engineering graduate must have felt to me,” he recalled.
The outcome, Omogiafo revealed, was both remarkable and affirming. Out of about 200 candidates, he was not only one of eight to pass the rigorous examination but ultimately the only one offered employment from that group.
“The lesson? Focus on your encouragers, not your discouragers, as long as you’re on the right path,” he concluded.
Omogiafo’s reflection comes at a time when Nigerian professionals and young graduates are navigating increasingly competitive job markets. His experience underscores the importance of resilience, mentorship, and seeking supportive networks in achieving one’s ambitions.
He closed his post with a note of optimism:
“Wishing you an amazing week ahead.”
