Auwal Ahmad Dankode, a cleaner employed by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), recently shared why he chose to return a large sum of money he found while cleaning an Egypt Air plane at the Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
While performing his duties, Auwal discovered $10,000 near seat 25 but promptly returned it to its rightful owner. Despite not being financially well-off, with only N3,800 in his bank account at the time, Auwal chose honesty over personal gain.
In an interview with *The Nation*, he recounted how he stumbled upon the envelope containing the money while cleaning the aircraft. Initially thinking it was a letter, he opened it and found a wallet containing a bundle of USD. Although the temptation was there, Auwal remained steadfast in his decision to do the right thing, guided by his principles rather than his financial situation.
As a reward for his integrity, Auwal was recognized by NAHCO with a Golden Time award and appointed as the company’s Brand Ambassador. His contract position was converted to permanent staff status, and he was also promoted and given a cash reward.
Auwal recalled how he was flown to Lagos, where top officials of the company praised him as a shining example of the kind of employee NAHCO values. He was taken to various departments and introduced to the senior management, who expressed their appreciation for his honesty.
Auwal also revealed that the owner of the money had offered him a personal reward, but he politely declined it. His decision highlights his unwavering integrity and serves as an inspiration to others, showing that character and honesty can often bring unexpected rewards.
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