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By Abubakar Umar
A non-governmental organisation, Dele Shittu Foundation, has introduced a mentorship initiative aimed at providing hope, guidance, and direction for young people amid prevailing social and economic challenges.
Speaking at an event organised by the foundation in Ilorin, the Chairman of Dele Groups of Companies, Dr. Lanre Shittu, described mentorship as a powerful tool for inspiring confidence, building character, and guiding youths towards productive and purposeful lives.
Dr. Shittu noted that many young people are grappling with uncertainty driven by socio-economic pressures, stressing that the mentorship programme was conceived to offer encouragement, practical guidance, and access to positive role models capable of helping them overcome obstacles.
According to him, the foundation remains committed to nurturing talents, promoting strong leadership values, and empowering the younger generation through structured mentorship, education, and capacity-building programmes.
In his remarks, the guest lecturer, Dr. Muhammad Shakir Balogun, explained that mentorship should be seen more as a contract than a casual relationship, emphasising the need for commitment and responsibility from both mentors and mentees.
Dr. Balogun said effective mentorship goes beyond informal interactions, adding that it requires clear expectations, discipline, and accountability between both parties.
While a mentor is expected to guide, correct, and support, he noted that the mentee must be willing to learn, grow, and apply the lessons received, describing this mutual understanding as the foundation of successful mentorship.
He further stated that when mentorship is approached with seriousness and structure, it becomes a powerful instrument for personal development, leadership training, and overall societal progress.
Dr. Balogun commended the Dele Shittu Foundation for promoting a mentorship culture focused on responsibility and long-term impact, urging young people to embrace the opportunity with dedication and purpose.
Meanwhile, two mentees of the foundation, Raheema and Emmanuella, described the mentorship programme as encouraging and impactful.
They said the initiative had inspired them to believe in their potential and approach personal and professional challenges with renewed confidence.
The mentees added that the sessions provided practical guidance, moral support, and motivation, noting that interactions with experienced mentors had broadened their perspectives and helped them set clear goals for the future.
