One of the most urgent assignments before us in Nigeria and the West African region is to teach our young people how to build big businesses. Teaming up to build billion-dollar companies. Not because wealth is the goal, but because productivity is the seed of national transformation. Most of our poverty and economic hardship is rooted in low productivity. Too many young people are chasing survival, not strategy. We must move from hustling to building. If we do not train a generation to start and scale great businesses, the future will look exactly like the past. Filled with dreams but no infrastructure.
An article published recently revealed a sobering truth: only three countries in Africa (South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt), host companies valued at over $1 billion. South Africa has 43 such companies. Nigeria and Egypt? Just one each. Globally, there are over 5,500 companies worth that much, yet Africa accounts for barely 1%. This is not just a financial issue. It is a reflection of our systems, our vision, and our leadership. If we do not create environments where great ideas can scale, young people will keep dreaming small or exporting their greatness elsewhere.
Now is the time to pray and think deeply. What are we doing today that ensures tomorrow’s economy is stronger than today’s? In our churches, schools, and mentorship circles, we must plant this new mindset. Building big is not anti-Christ; it is kingdom. Joseph managed Egypt’s economy. Daniel influenced government systems. Lydia ran a prosperous business. We must raise thinkers, builders, and visionaries who don’t just seek jobs but create them. May the Lord give us the grace to raise entrepreneurs, innovators, and founders whose companies will shape society and influence the economy of their nations.
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