Leadership experts, government officials, and development professionals have called on young Nigerians to embrace purpose-driven leadership, strategic career planning, and civic engagement as essential tools for personal growth and national development.

The call was made at the 2026 edition of The Clarity Experience, an annual leadership and purpose conference organised by leadership and management consultant, Shalom Ernest, through The Clarity Conclave, held in Ikeja, Lagos.

The conference brought together participants from different sectors to discuss practical approaches to career development, self-discovery, leadership and sustainable societal impact amid Nigeria’s evolving economic realities.

Speaking at the event, the convener, Shalom Ernest, said personal identity and natural abilities are the foundation for meaningful community transformation.

He urged participants to identify their strengths, draw lessons from their personal experiences, and focus on solving challenges within their immediate communities rather than waiting for systemic changes.

Leadership coach Joshua Adeloye encouraged young professionals to balance long-term purpose with present economic realities by embracing continuous learning and service during the early stages of their careers.

He recommended the Ikigai framework, which aligns passion, skills, market demand and income opportunities, as a practical model for building sustainable careers while creating social impact.

Adeloye also stressed the importance of developing clear five-year career plans and succession strategies to ensure long-term growth and leadership continuity.

Legal practitioner and energy advocate Chinenye Ajayi advised participants to develop a strong personal conviction before making major career transitions.

She said professional visions should be thoroughly refined before seeking public validation to avoid discouragement and maintain focus on long-term goals.

Technical Adviser to the Managing Director of Lagos Water Corporation, Orifunke Lawal, described individuals with diverse interests and abilities as valuable assets when supported by self-awareness and discipline.

She urged young leaders to continually seek environments that challenge their abilities rather than remaining in comfort zones where growth is limited.

Culture architect Bayode Oke Thomas said conventional educational and corporate systems often sustain existing structures instead of promoting innovation.

According to him, lasting career advancement is driven by service, value creation and the ability to solve institutional challenges.

Delivering the keynote address, leadership scholar Dr. Akin Akinpelu said enduring leadership is built on strong relationships, character and a clear vision.

Drawing from his personal experiences, he noted that ethical conduct and strategic relationships remain critical factors in achieving long-term leadership success.

During a fireside conversation with the convener, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Sam Egube, urged young Nigerians not to abandon their dreams before making genuine attempts to pursue them.

He emphasised the importance of investing in human capital, maintaining clarity of vision and believing in one’s potential despite challenges.

The conference also featured the announcement of the expansion of the Youth Making Impact (YMI) Initiative to Lagos.

The organisation said it aims to bridge leadership, skills and talent development gaps among young people by providing mentorship, enterprise development opportunities and a community for learning and growth.