Former minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed has urged young Nigerians to embrace hard work, discipline, integrity, and resilience, emphasising that these qualities are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Speaking during yesterday’s book launch in Lagos of Build It, Scale It by Oyewole Shobande, Mohammed praised the author’s journey from adversity to prominence, describing it as a powerful lesson in determination and perseverance.
“To our youth, I say this: if you embrace hard work, discipline, integrity, and resilience, the sky is your limit. The challenges may be great, but your determination must be greater,” he said.
Recounting Shobande’s inspiring story, Mohammed highlighted how the young entrepreneur had to drop out of school due to financial struggles but refused to give up. Instead, Shobande took on menial jobs, self-funded his education, and steadily worked up the academic and professional ladder.
“Here is a man who had no privileged connections, no powerful sponsors, no financial safety net, yet he clawed his way up with dignity and determination,” he said.
He stressed that today, Shobande is the founder and CEO of Ample System Projects Limited, a thriving company providing engineering consultancy, project management, and industrial solutions. The company boasts a clientele that includes major brands such as 7UP, Nigerian Bottling Company, Unilever, and British American Tobacco.
Mohammed emphasised that Shobande’s story disproves the belief that success can only be achieved outside Nigeria.
He encouraged young people to seek opportunities, work hard, and build their dreams despite challenges.
“I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Read it, internalise its lessons, and let it propel you to greater heights,” he added.
