How Naira Failed Me And The Challenge of Building Generational Wealth in Nigeria [video]

When I started working as an entry-level banker in Lagos, I developed a personal wealth construction plan: 45-20-20-15. When I received my salary, 15% were used to buy shares at the Nigerian Stock Exchange. I did a simple statistical modeling and I was convinced that with a small appreciation of actions and dividends on these investments, for five years worked, a free two -year bonus on income would be added. I was not an engineer for nothing; I wanted to design an independent financial future!

But what do you know? Due to the continuous devaluation of Naira, which would have proven to be an excellent idea failed. When I made these investments, Naira exchanged around the N100 / $ range; Today, it is N1500 / $ which makes tons of dividends that I always receive annually largely useless. I am invested in most companies in Nigeria because I bought anything at sight then. Of course, nothing like Naira has spoiled the party!

This brings me to a message: Nigeria must stabilize its currency. Otherwise, generational wealth will be impossible for families in the middle class to build on the capital market. If what I did, that I taught in Tekedia Mini-MBA, was done in America, I would have a bestseller at the moment. But what do you know? I destroyed a real value by buying these actions because the Naira moved the balance in the middle of the game.

And that brings me to the conclusion: the greatest chief of the Nigeria will be the person who can stabilize the Naira for years!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jahi6smyh_a

—

Sign up at Tekedia Mini-MBA (June 9 to September 6, 2025) and join Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe and our world faculty; Click here.