Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) consultant and business strategist, Dr. Lanre Philips, has urged Nigerian youth to embrace adaptability, digital skills and strategic visibility as the non-negotiable tools for thriving in a rapidly evolving world.
Speaking at the Youth Opportunity Summit 2025, held on Saturday, December 6 at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, Dr. Philips delivered a hard-hitting session that dissected generational shifts, global competition and the urgent need for young people to take charge of their economic futures.
“The excitement of yesterday is today’s mediocrity,” he declared, warning that the tools, knowledge and strategies that once guaranteed success are no longer sufficient in a digital-first era.
Dr. Philips explained that the modern workplace currently hosts four distinct generations—Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials (Gen Y) and Generation Z—each shaped by different historical realities and technological exposure.
He noted that Gen Z (1997–2015), the emerging workforce, is pragmatic, financially driven and data-oriented, and must therefore be engaged with clarity, evidence, and innovation.
While comparing the past with today’s digital openness, Philips said success used to be determined by gatekeepers who controlled media, opportunities and visibility. “Before now, we had just TV and newspapers. There were gatekeepers everywhere. You couldn’t be successful until some people liked you or you lived in a major city,” he said.
Using examples from entertainment and sports, he highlighted how digital technology has democratized global reach.
He referenced the transformation from traditional stars like King Sunny Ade to digital-era icons like Davido, whose influence is driven by social media visibility, and footballer Victor Osimhen, whose rise to global recognition began with digital exposure right from Nigeria.
Dr. Philips stressed that in 2025, young people no longer have to wait for anyone to “give them” opportunities. “Some years back, opportunities were given to people. But it’s a different ball game now. Nobody is going to give you the opportunity — it’s out there. Go and grab yours,” he said.
He noted that with AI-powered tools, social media platforms, data analytics, and a smartphone or laptop, young people can build global careers from their bedrooms.
He emphasized that over 50 million creators currently earn income globally—some doing little but leveraging digital tools creatively.
To thrive, Philips urged young Nigerians to:
• Build visibility
• Develop future-ready skills, including digital literacy and networking
• Master content strategy
• Stay adaptable and continuously learn
• Leverage their phones as the first tool of growth
He warned that Gen Alpha, coming after Gen Z, will raise the competition bar even higher. “The game has evolved — but are you ready to play?” he asked.
Dr. Philips added that government must focus on building infrastructure, creating enabling environments, and—most importantly—listening to young people instead of assuming what they need.
However, he emphasized that the primary responsibility still lies with the youth. “Stay adaptable. Follow who know road.”
His session, widely described as one of the most energetic and practical segments of the summit, left participants with a renewed sense of urgency and direction.
