In Nigeria today, young people are no longer just participants—they are leaders, changemakers, and influencers shaping the future. Here are ten Nigerian youths under 30 who are making waves locally and globally in 2025.
1. Victory Ashaka (b. 2000) – Poet, Climate Advocate & Youth Leader
Victory Ashaka from Lagos State is a spoken-word poet and climate justice advocate. Named Poet Laureate at the World Food Forum, he has led climate education projects reaching over 17,500 schoolchildren in Lagos, organized major youth conferences, and earned the Diana Award for social impact. His poetry and activism bridge art and environmental change.
2. Ayobami Akindipe (b. 1997) – Real Estate Innovator & Youth Empowerment
Founder of Ace Real Estate Development, Ayobami started working in real estate as a teenager and has since developed housing projects in Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. Through ACE Academy, he has trained over 25,000 underserved youth in sales, entrepreneurship, and property development. Named to Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 in 2025.
3. Realjjfrosh (b. 2005) – TikTok Creator & Cultural Trendsetter
Adebayo Temitayo, known as Realjjfrosh, is a vibrant TikTok star known for viral African sound challenges. With over 600,000 followers, his content reaches a wide audience across Nigeria and beyond. He has been featured on major platforms for helping other creators grow and for influencing TikTok trends around the continent.
4. Charity Ekezie – TikToker & Journalist
Charity combines journalism and humor, using TikTok to debunk misconceptions about life in Africa. A graduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, she has millions of followers and is celebrated globally for her sharp social commentary and storytelling.
5. Enioluwa Adeoluwa – Fashion & Beauty Influencer
Dubbed "Lipgloss Boy," Enioluwa moved the needle in Nigerian beauty and fashion spaces. Listed on Forbes Africa 30 Under 30, he has partnered with global brands like Crocs and MAC Cosmetics. Also a creative producer and actor in series like All Of Us.
6. Temilade Salami (Global Temi) – Environmental Educator & Author
Known as Global Temi, she leads EcoChampions, a platform offering climate education and youth leadership. Recognized since 2020 as a top Nigerian youth leader, she has worked on sustainability education and authored works to inspire environmental action.
7. Amara Nwuneli (b. 2007) – Earth Prize Winner & Urban Planner
This exceptional 17-year-old turned a Lagos dump into a vibrant playground using recycled tires and planted flood-resistant trees around it. Winner of the 2025 Earth Prize, she is now planning more parks across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states to promote climate resilience and green space access.
8. Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji – Youth Development & EdTech Pioneer
Founder of Rise Networks and Passnownow, she brought affordable educational tools to underserved school students in Nigeria. Praised by Michelle Obama and named among Africa’s most powerful young women, she continues to influence youth development through AI training, humanitarian outreach, and civic leadership.
9. David Nwosu – Youth Political Advocate
At just 29, David leads the Progressive Youth Forum, pushing for youth representation in government. He has advised the Nigerian National Assembly and mobilized young voters for inclusive policies. His leadership is reshaping how youth engage in politics nationwide.
10. Amarachi Okonkwo – AI Innovator & Agri-Tech Entrepreneur
Founder of NexaTech, Amarachi is revolutionizing agriculture in Nigeria with AI-based tools that assist farmers in boosting yield and managing crops. Her innovations attracted international investment and positioned Nigeria as a leader in African AI-driven farming.
Why These Youths Stand Out
Each of these young Nigerians brings something unique:
They prove that youth can lead, shape industries, and positively change Nigeria’s trajectory.
Takeaway: Empowered Youth = Stronger Nigeria
These young figures show us that age isn’t a barrier to greatness. They teach us that vision plus action equals influence. From art to policy to community building, they inspire youth across the nation.
Whether you are a teenager, a parent, a teacher, or just a curious reader—look at these role models and ask:
How can I contribute? What can I start today?
The future of Nigeria will depend on the bold steps taken by its young leaders.
Michael
