Airlines Association Chair Damilola Ogunseye Honoured for Youth Mentorship

Damilola Ogunseye, Chairman of the International Airlines Association of Nigeria, has been recognised for his contribution to youth mentorship and professional development at the ninth leadership awards organised by the Impact Initiative for Youth Mentorship.

Ogunseye was among 19 individuals honoured at the event. The recognition focused on efforts to guide young people in areas including character development, career growth and leadership. After receiving the award, Ogunseye said his mentorship work has included professional guidance, counselling and support for young people, particularly those seeking careers in aviation.

He encouraged young Nigerians to approach career development with patience and resilience rather than expecting immediate success. According to Ogunseye, young professionals need guidance as they make decisions about their careers and develop the skills required to progress in their chosen fields.

The event also featured a virtual address from the initiative's Grand Patron, Prof PLO Lumumba. He encouraged the young participants to recognise their ability to make a positive contribution to society and urged organisers to continue providing a platform where young Africans can interact with experienced leaders and professionals.

Victor Cletus, convener of the Impact Initiative for Youth Mentorship, said the programme was created after he observed a need for young people to have access to people with greater experience who could listen to them and provide direction. He said the initiative has continued to bring leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals together with younger participants to share knowledge and experiences.

Cletus also linked mentorship to the wider issue of leadership development in Nigeria and Africa. He said the programme aims to prepare young people for responsible leadership by exposing them to professionals whose experiences can provide practical lessons about career and personal development.

Students from Yaba College of Technology, the Federal University Oye-Ekiti and other higher institutions participated in the programme. According to Cletus, the interaction was intended to give students direct access to experienced professionals and allow them to learn from their career journeys.

The ninth edition of the awards therefore combined recognition of established professionals with a mentorship programme for younger participants. For Ogunseye, the honour acknowledged his role in helping young people, including aspiring aviation professionals, navigate career and professional development.