Popular business tycoon, Tony Elumelu shares inspiring story of how he joined the banking profession despite not having the required grade.
Walking down memory lane, he shared a photo from 1985 when he did his one-year mandatory national service. He revealed that during his service year, he was unsure of what to do next after his NYSC, but was certain that he would make it through hard work and resilience. Mr Elumelu said that he had admired the banking profession particularly for how impeccably dressed they typically are. He had resolved to apply for a job at All States Trust Bank, however a minimum of 2:1 was demanded and he had graduated with a 2:2 grade.
Undeterred by this, he applied regardless and assured his future employers that he’d prove himself and was granted a chance. He stated that he shared the story to inspire the youths who had recently passed out of the NYSC. In his words: “Circa 1985. I recall my Youth Service days in Sokoto, a young man, fresh out of school, enjoying the drinks we could afford (lol) and unsure about the next steps. In my uncertainty, I was sure of one thing, I will stand out wherever I found myself, through hard work and resilience. I had always admired the banking profession, for one, I loved that the guys in the profession were always impeccably dressed… suspenders were a huge thing then, and I wanted to look like them. A few years later, after my Masters, I saw the application for graduates with a minimum of 2:1 in All States Trust Bank, this aligned with what I wanted for my life, but my 2:2 grade did not make me qualified, still, I applied, because I identified what I wanted in life and I was going to work towards it. I put in my application and said “Even though I do not meet these requirements if you give me the chance, I will prove myself”. I got this job and spent every day proving myself and earning my luck in the bank. Do it afraid and do it unsure! To the young ones out there, especially those who just passed out of NYSC yesterday, this is my message to you. The world needs your courage. #FlashbackFriday #TOEWay”
