#TechWorld: Nigeria’s Mark Zuckerberg – Seun Osewa (founder of Nairaland)
Seun Osewa, born July 17, 1982, is a Nigerian internet entrepreneur best known for creating Nairaland, one of Africa’s most visited online forums. He hails from Ogun State, Nigeria.
He enrolled at Obafemi Awolowo University in 1998 to study Electrical Engineering, but did not complete his studies. Before starting Nairaland, he attempted to build a web-hosting business in 2003, which closed after three months due to a lack of funds. Determined to succeed, he continued experimenting with online ventures and eventually launched several small discussion forums in late 2003, covering topics such as student life, IT, and the emerging GSM/telecom industry.
In March 2005, Seun officially launched Nairaland as a general-purpose discussion forum designed for Nigerians both at home and abroad. Its wide coverage of politics, entertainment, technology, social issues, romance, and everyday life sets it apart from existing platforms. Over the years, Nairaland has attracted millions of users and has been monetized primarily through advertisements and direct ad deals.
Despite the platform’s success, Seun has maintained a low public profile. He is recognized
as one of Nigeria’s most influential tech entrepreneurs, yet continues to live quietly, keeping details of his personal life private while running one of the continent’s most impactful online communities.
Update (credit to Mutairu Umoru ):
You forgot to mention that he declined an offer to buy the platform from two different parties:
– Initial Offer: In 2010, some investors offered to buy Nairaland for $1 million, approximately ₦150 million at the time. Seun Osewa turned down this offer.
– Recent Offers: More recently, two individuals have made offers to buy Nairaland:
– Stephen Akintayo: Offered ₦1 billion ($2.4 million), with 20% cash and 80% land.
– Gaius Chibueze (Bitcoin Chief): Offered ₦150 million.
It’s worth noting that Seun Osewa reportedly values Nairaland at ₦25 billion. Today, estimates suggest Nairaland is worth around $50,604,264.32 (₦20.5 billion to ₦25 billion, depending on conversion rates)
#OpeningMonologue #BeingNigerian #resillience #resourcefulness
