Low Self-Esteem Is Killing Dreams of Nigerian Youth”- Author, Joseph Olotu

Self-esteem, often regarded as a key factor in personal development, is emerging as a silent killer of potential among Nigeria’s youth, says author and entrepreneur Joseph Olotu. Drawing from his personal journey, Olotu highlights how societal expectations and rigid cultural norms are stifling individuality and hindering dreams.

Born in Ibadan in 1988 as the youngest of three, Olotu’s childhood was defined by introspection and creativity. “I was always the observer, the thinker,” he reflects. Despite excelling academically, he often felt confined by conventional education systems that left little room for unstructured exploration. His passion for creativity—whether in writing, drawing, or storytelling—was frequently overshadowed by societal demands for conformity.

According to Olotu, the seeds of low self-esteem are often planted at home. Growing up in a culture that values collective achievement over individual self-expression, he experienced the pressure of parental expectations. “The comparisons and benchmarks parents set, although well-meaning, can strip a child of their uniqueness,” he says. These struggles shaped his belief that self-worth must come from within rather than external validation.

Olotu’s perspective on life shifted dramatically in 2017 following a profound spiritual experience, which was soon followed by the devastating loss of his brother in a bike accident. “I started asking questions I’d never asked before: What really matters? What kind of life do I want to live?” he recalls. These reflections became the foundation of his philosophy of intentional living, prioritizing authenticity over societal standards.

In 2019, after the death of his mother, Olotu took over the family’s hotel business. Under his leadership, the business was transformed into a thriving enterprise, with reduced debts and restructured operations. This success allowed him to focus on his passion for writing and mentoring others.

Through his latest book, Nigeria My Family, Olotu challenges conventional definitions of success, advocating for a life guided by personal values rather than societal benchmarks. “Many people feel stuck in roles they didn’t choose, living according to expectations they never questioned,” he explains. “Breaking free starts with asking, ‘What do I truly value?’”

Olotu’s approach to leadership is equally grounded in authenticity. Inspired by his late mother, he emphasizes principles such as love, integrity, and teamwork. His philanthropic efforts, including the Lotus Center of Excellence and the Omowumi Wellness Center, reflect his belief in leadership that extends beyond business to impact lives positively.

For Olotu, the issue of self-esteem is central to Nigeria’s progress. He challenges the notion that success must align with societal benchmarks and instead advocates for embracing individuality and nurturing unique strengths.

“To thine own self be true,” he says, quoting Shakespeare. Olotu’s journey is a call to action for families, communities, and institutions to rethink how self-esteem is nurtured. In a society that often prioritizes conformity, his story stands as a testament to the transformative power of embracing authenticity and creating a life aligned with personal values.