Nigerian cultural archivist and curator, Asma’u Shu’aibu Abubakar, has urged young people to embrace mentorship as a pathway to personal and professional growth, describing it as one of the most effective tools for unlocking opportunities and achieving success.
Speaking as a guest on Political Arena, a programme on S24 Television, Asma’u encouraged young Nigerians to intentionally seek mentors whose careers, values and expertise align with their aspirations rather than waiting for opportunities to come to them.
According to her, mentorship provides guidance, direction, accountability and access to networks that can shape a person’s future.
“Mentorship is the key. Young people should not be afraid to reach out to people they admire. Look for mentors whose journey aligns with your niche and what you want to become,” she said.
No One Is Beyond Reach
Asma’u challenged the common belief that successful people are unapproachable, insisting that many established professionals are willing to support young people who approach them respectfully and genuinely.
She said fear and self-doubt often prevent many youths from building meaningful relationships that could transform their careers.
“People often say, ‘This person is not approachable.’ I don’t believe that. Nobody is completely unapproachable. If you approach people respectfully and with genuine intentions, many are willing to guide and support you.”
She advised young people to be intentional in their communication, respectful in their interactions and patient while building relationships with mentors.
Choose Mentors Who Match Your Vision
The cultural advocate stressed that not every successful individual is the right mentor for everyone.
She explained that mentorship becomes more impactful when the mentor’s experience aligns with the mentee’s field, interests and long-term goals.
According to her, choosing the right mentor helps young people gain relevant knowledge, practical experience and industry-specific guidance that accelerates their growth.
She encouraged youths to clearly define their career paths before identifying individuals who have excelled in similar areas.
Create Opportunities Instead of Waiting
Beyond mentorship, Asma’u urged young Nigerians to create platforms and workshops that showcase their talents, connect with professionals and generate opportunities.
She noted that many successful careers begin with individuals creating spaces where ideas can be exchanged, collaborations can flourish and skills can be developed.
“Don’t be afraid to create workshops, organise conversations or build platforms around your interests. These initiatives open doors, attract opportunities and help people discover your work.”
She explained that creating value for others often attracts recognition, partnerships and mentorship naturally.
Preserving Northern Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage
Asma’u Shu’aibu Abubakar is widely recognised for her contributions to preserving the history and cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria.
She is the founder of The Northern Archive, an initiative dedicated to documenting, preserving and promoting the region’s history, traditions and identity through research, exhibitions, storytelling and public engagement.
Her work explores themes including identity, memory, textiles, material culture and oral traditions while promoting greater appreciation of Northern Nigerian history among younger generations.
She also founded The Beccs Collective, a platform focused on African contemporary art, underrepresented artists and cultural exchange.
Through both initiatives, she works across curatorial research, creative documentation, cultural programming and community engagement, creating opportunities for emerging artists and cultural practitioners.
Building Bridges Through Storytelling
A curator, storyteller and alumna of the University of Hull, United Kingdom, Asma’u said storytelling remains one of the most powerful tools for preserving history and inspiring future generations.
She noted that archives and museums should not merely preserve the past but should actively connect young people with their heritage while encouraging innovation and creativity.
According to her, documenting local histories and amplifying underrepresented voices helps strengthen identity and ensures future generations understand their cultural roots.
Empowering the Next Generation
Asma’u concluded by encouraging young Nigerians to invest in learning, remain curious and build meaningful relationships that contribute to their personal development.
She maintained that while talent is important, mentorship, collaboration and continuous learning often determine how far a person progresses.
She urged youths not to allow fear, intimidation or self-doubt to prevent them from approaching experienced professionals, adding that every successful individual was once a beginner who benefited from guidance and support.
“As long as you are willing to learn, improve yourself and create value, opportunities will come. Mentorship can change the trajectory of your life, but you must be willing to take the first step,” she said.
