Custodian Foundation Urges Young Nigerians to Build Lasting Impact

Young Nigerians should look beyond short-term achievement and build careers and ventures that leave a lasting mark, the Custodian Social Responsibility Foundation said at its eighth Mentors Conference in Lagos. The event brought together mentors, mentees, professionals, entrepreneurs and participants from the foundation’s mentoring cohorts from 2018 to 2026.

Olubunmi Aderemi, the foundation’s chief executive officer, said the organization remained focused on developing young people while advancing sustainable social impact across Nigeria. Established in 2016, the foundation has invested in health, education, community development and sustainability.

Its projects include a trauma centre donated to the Federal Medical Centre in Epe and a nursery and primary school in Benue State. It is also working with the University of Lagos on the donation of a new building to the institution.

Youth development is a central part of the foundation’s work through the Custodian Mentoring Programme. The nine-month initiative offers structured mentorship, virtual open days and regular engagement with experienced professionals. Its Impact Award recognizes mentees who achieve measurable results during their mentoring cycle. Aderemi challenged the new cohort to make full use of the opportunities available and demonstrate measurable impact by July 2027.

Dare Art Alade, co-founder and chief creative officer of Livespot 360, told mentees to remain open to new opportunities and consider side ventures linked to their passions. Drawing on his experience in Nigeria’s creative industry, he also stressed reliability and resilience, saying failure should form part of the learning process. Victoria Abiola Ajayi, group managing director and chief executive officer of TVC Communications, said self-awareness, competence and reputation were essential for professionals seeking to stand out in an increasingly competitive environment.

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Failure should be viewed as part of the learning process.