Meristem Trustees Limited, a subsidiary of Meristem Securities Limited, has launched its special needs trust (SNT), a pioneering solution designed to provide long-term financial security and care for individuals living with physical and developmental challenges.

The SNT was developed in direct response to the need, ensuring that vulnerable individuals are not excluded from sustainable financial planning, the company said.

The SNT offers families a structured framework to safeguard the future of their loved ones with special needs. It enables them to set aside funds that are professionally managed by Meristem Trustees, ensuring continuity of care and financial stability beyond the lifetime or capacity of caregivers.

Speaking at the unveiling in Lagos, Managing Director of Meristem Trustees, Damilola Hassan, highlighted the vision behind the initiative, stating: “Every parent or guardian of a dependent with special needs carries a silent question: Who will care for my loved one when I no longer can? With the Special Needs Trust, we provide not just a financial solution, but peace of mind – a lasting legacy of care, dignity and inclusion.”

The event also featured a panel discussion where a special needs advocate, Tobiloba Ajayi, emphasized the importance of planning, saying: “With the evolving world, it is not realistic to rely solely on extended family members for support. You cannot do this alone; you need a support system for your dependents with special needs.”

Deputy Group Managing Director, Meristem Securities, Mubo Olasoko, underscored the broader vision, stating that: “At Meristem, we believe wealth management is not just about numbers, it’s about people.

The Special Needs Trust embodies our goal of giving families hope and ensuring that dependents living with special needs are not left vulnerable and without structure. It reflects our commitment to building a more inclusive financial ecosystem in Nigeria.”