Nicola Sturgeon appeared to wipe away a solitary tear after delivering an emotional final speech to the Scottish Parliament as First Minister.
The SNP leader said she had "confidence" in whoever takes her place as leader of the party would deliver Scottish independence.
Speaking at her final 286th FMQ Sturgeon said she is “overwhelmingly proud” of what her Government has achieved.
The outgoing First Minister explained that her successor would have "a tough job", but they would "build on [her] record and continue to maintain the trust of Scottish people".
Nicola Sturgeon made her final speech as First Minister
Scottish Parliament TV
Sturgeon defended her party's record in government against criticism from both the Conservatives and Labour over the performance of the NHS, the gender recognition bill and drug related deaths in Scotland.
Beginning her final speech, she said: "No matter what I do in future, nothing, absolutely nothing will come close to the experience of the past 3,046 days.
"Being first minister of the country I love has been a profound honour."
As the first female in the top role in Scotland, Sturgeon said marking the three year anniversary since the first Covid lockdown was something she said "defined" her time in office.
Holding back tears, she delivered a final thank you to the people of Scotland: “Whether you voted for me or not… thank you so much for placing your trust in me."
“Words will never adequately convey the gratitude and the awe I hold in my heart for the opportunity I have had to serve as your First Minister.
“It truly has been the privilege of my lifetime.”
Last month Sturgeon announced that she would be stepping down as Scotland's first minister and the leader of the SNP after more than eight years.
Nicola Sturgeon says she is 'overwhelmingly proud' of what her Government has achieved
PA
In a message to her potential successors, Nicola Sturgeon urged the next first minister not to “shy away” from the “big challenges”.
She said: “Next week, we will find out whose portrait will go alongside me on the stairwell of Bute House, subject to this chamber’s approval."
She added: “Never forget that everything in this office is an opportunity to make something better for someone somewhere in Scotland.
“Do not shy away from the big challenges that are difficult. You won’t get everything right. But it is always better to try to aim high and fall short than to not try at all.”
