Nigerian entrepreneur and technology investor Iyinoluwa Aboyeji has ignited a national conversation about the shifting values of younger generations in Nigeria, warning of a decline in the culture of building lasting value. Speaking during a recent public discussion, Aboyeji pointed to a generational shift, noting that the people who laid the foundations of Nigeria’s major institutions—banks, universities, industries, and infrastructure—are mostly gone. He argued that in their place, society is now dominated by influencers who prioritize visibility and performance over innovation, craftsmanship, and long-term impact.
Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela, emphasized that today’s youth are often trained to present themselves rather than to develop the skills necessary to create sustainable systems and businesses. “The generation of people who built Nigeria has passed away. What you have now are influencers. We are a generation of influencers,” he stated. His words have resonated widely, prompting debates across social media and in professional circles about the direction of Nigeria’s economic and cultural development.
He further criticized the current trend where people focus more on being seen and recognized than on producing tangible value. “People are trained to perform, not to build. People don’t understand value,” Aboyeji added. This sentiment reflects growing concerns about the lack of emphasis on deep expertise, long-term planning, and institutional building in Nigeria’s education and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Many Nigerians have responded to his comments, with some agreeing that the country is increasingly obsessed with social media fame and short-term gains. Others argue that the rise of influencers is a natural evolution in the digital age and that many young people are still building impactful businesses behind the scenes. Nonetheless, Aboyeji’s remarks have highlighted a broader question: how can Nigeria foster a new generation of builders who can carry forward the legacy of its founding institutions?
His observations come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic challenges, infrastructure deficits, and youth unemployment. The need for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development has never been more urgent. As the country seeks to modernize its economy and create jobs, the call for a return to value-driven creation is gaining traction.
Aboyeji’s insights serve as a reminder that while influence and visibility have their place, they must be balanced with substance and purpose. The future of Nigeria’s development may depend on whether the next generation chooses to build or merely to be seen.
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