By Dada Ahmed.
In today’s world, purposeful leadership is rare yet essential. This is especially true at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the largest news agency in Africa, where the Managing Director and Chief Executive, Mal. Ali M. Ali, has embodied the essence of “leading from the front,” capturing both the admiration and trust of his team and staff.
On Saturday, October 26, 2024, the NAN Abuja Office, otherwise called “Wada Maida House,” transformed as Ali led the maiden Wellness & Unity Walk—a celebration of health, teamwork, and resilience—signaling his unique approach to leadership.
Under the slogan “Ali No Dey Do Small Things,” this initiative showcased the values Ali brings to NAN—a sense of camaraderie, enthusiasm, and unyielding commitment to his team. Sources revealed that when he stepped forward as the first to join the Wellness Walk, Ali did more than just participate; he set a tone of involvement, responsibility, and unity. He embodied what Dr. Krishna once described as “leading by example, taking ownership of your decisions, and communicating effectively with team members.”
Throughout the event, NAN’s leadership was visible, with Ali at the helm, backed by his dedicated management team. Together, they engaged with enthusiastic staff members, who embraced the spirit, reinforced team unity, and encouraged fitness, thereby creating a vibrant and memorable experience.
Employees turned out in large numbers, not only to exercise but also to connect with colleagues. They walked, danced, and laughed—experiencing, perhaps for the first time, the joy of collective purpose.
Many of them believe that Ali’s leadership goes beyond the conventional.
According to them, his leading such an initiative emphasizes his belief in fostering well-being and unity within the workplace.
Others argued, with a sense of satisfaction, that Ali’s presence in this wellness initiative resonated deeply, not only as a health event but as a signal of a stronger, more resilient NAN.
Yet, others assert that the sporting event, the first of its kind in the agency, is a testament to the trust and respect Ali’s leadership has inspired in the agency.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Dorcas Jonah, the Chairman of the Social Calendar Committee, she extended gratitude to all who made the event a triumph.
Feelers from the agency reveal that the Wellness Walk now stands as a milestone in NAN’s journey as a formidable news agency, marking the start of a healthier, more robust community.
In other words, under Ali’s guidance, NAN is not just reporting the news; it is becoming a beacon of collaboration and well-being.
Ali’s style of leadership has reminded everyone at NAN that true leadership is about inclusion, dedication, and a heart that appreciates the contributions of staff members to the organization.
It’s about going beyond the headlines and, as Ali demonstrated, stepping into the story of purposeful leadership that inspires maximum productivity and self-satisfaction in nation-building.
Cheers to Ali M. Ali, his management, and staff for ushering in a new era of purpose-driven leadership at NAN!
More of such event in NAN, to serve as a light to other agencies.
Ahmed, Publisher of The Reporters, retired from NAN as an Assistant Editor-in-Chief.
