Osborn Nweze, 2 other Nigerians who deserve spots on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list for 2025

There are three exceptional Nigerians who deserve to earn spots on the esteemed Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2025. They have successfully showcased their talents across diverse fields like entertainment, food and technology.

Their possible recognition would underscore Nigeria’s rich pool of potential.

From hospitality to food and then technology, these young Nigerians are not only breaking barriers but also shaping global industries.
Their passion, creativity, and determination inspire others and promise a lasting impact on the world stage.

Hilda Baci - 29 year old
Hilda Effiong Bassey (born 20 September 1996), more popularly known as Hilda Baci, is a Nigerian chef, restaurateur, actress, and the former holder of the Guinness World Record for marathon cooking (cook-athon) with 93 hours 11 minutes in May 2023, which was surpassed later that year by Irish chef Alan Fisher with 119 hours, 57 minutes.
The 29-year-old graduate of sociology from Madonna University Okija had in August 2021 won the Jollof Faceoff competition.
Baci, a well celebrated chef in Africa has continued to empower aspiring chefs across Nigeria and beyond.

Osborn Nweze Umahi - 26 year old
Osborn Nweze is inspiring a new generation of family wealth and influence. He is the famous NIGERIAN OIL & REAL ESTATE BILLIONAIRE  POPULARLY KNOWN FOR HIS OSBORN LAPALM HOTELS.
In a bid to maintain a legacy of wealth and influence, Osborn Nweze Umahi has established a formidable presence with his accomplishments.
Born on March 14, 1998, Osborn Nweze Umahi is no stranger to prominence. He is the son of David Nweze Umahi, a notable Nigerian politician, and the nephew of oil billionaire Arthur Eze.
Despite the weight of such lineage, Osborn Nweze has pursued his path to success with remarkable determination.
Now, at just 26 years old, Osborn Nweze Umahi holds significant positions within his family's business empire. As the Managing Director of Brass Oil & Construction, he exemplifies leadership and business acumen.
With a net worth exceeding $200 million, Osborn Nweze's achievements speak volumes about his dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. His journey, while rooted in a legacy of wealth and influence, is a narrative of personal endeavour and success.

Tobiloba Asu Johnson
Tobiloba Dorbra Asu Johnson, widely known as Tobiloba ASU Johnson, is making waves in the Nigerian fintech industry as the visionary founder and CEO of Zap Africa.
With over 1.5 years of experience in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, Johnson has already proven his mettle as a strategic leader in the fast-evolving financial technology landscape.
Under his leadership, Zap Africa has rapidly grown its user base to over 10,000 within a year, thanks to strategic marketing initiatives and innovative product offerings. Johnson launched two groundbreaking products: a cryptocurrency exchange app and non-custodial wallets, revolutionizing the crypto transaction ecosystem in Africa.
Johnson’s academic background includes a Master’s degree in Management from Manchester Metropolitan University, where he graduated with merits, and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. He also holds a certification in Product Management from Udemy, further solidifying his expertise in the fintech space.
Beyond his professional achievements, Johnson is also an avid speaker, recently sharing insights on "Crypto, DeFi, and Web3" at the Lagos TechFest 2024

Forbes Africa 2024

It would be recalled that this year, 2024, FORBES AFRICA celebrated the 10th anniversary of the 30 Under 30 list by identifying and appraising Africa’s youthful demographic dividend and pivotal role in shaping the continent’s narrative.

With a theme of “Passion, Purpose, And A Decade Of The 30 Under 30 List,” this year’s selection reflected Africa’s vibrant socio-economic landscape, highlighting the boundless potential and talent within its youngest population.

Here are the 5 Nigerians that were listed in the Forbes Africa 30 under 30 list 2024
Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML) — 28 years old
Fireboy DML, born Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan on February 5, 1996, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter signed to YBNL Nation, founded by rapper Olamide. His breakout single “Jealous” from the 2018 album “YBNL Mafia Family” gained widespread acclaim. He followed up with romantic hits like “What If I Say” and self-affirming tracks like “King”.
His debut album “Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps” dropped in 2019, showcasing his blend of R&B and Afropop. Fireboy DML’s music resonates with a fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and Afropop, earning him critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.

Victor Osimhen — 25 years old
Victor Osimhen, born December 29, 1998, in Lagos, Nigeria, rose to fame through the Ultimate Strikers Academy and his stellar performance in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he emerged as the tournament’s top scorer. His European journey began with VfL Wolfsburg in 2017, followed by successful loan spells at Charleroi and Royal Mouscron.
However, it was his time at Lille OSC where he truly shone, scoring 18 goals in the 2019-2020 season. Osimhen’s impact extends to the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, where his goals have been instrumental in their pursuit of success in AFCON and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Tobi Amusan — 26 years old
Oluwatobiloba Ayomide “Tobi” Amusan, born April 23, 1997, is a Nigerian track and field athlete specializing in the 100-meter hurdles and sprinting. Her journey began in Ijebu Ode, Nigeria, and she trained at the Ultimate Strikers Academy in Lagos. Amusan’s breakthrough came in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where she emerged as the tournament’s top scorer.
She signed with VfL Wolfsburg and later had successful loan spells at Charleroi and Royal Mouscron. Her time at Lille OSC in France during the 2019-2020 season saw her excel, scoring 18 goals in 38 appearances. Amusan is a key player for the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, contributing significantly in AFCON and FIFA World Cup qualifiers with her stellar performances.

Ruth Erikan James — 29 years old
Ruth Erikan James, known as Veekee James, is a Nigerian fashion designer, gospel singer, and entrepreneur. Born on June 9, 1994, in Nsit Atai, Akwa Ibom State, she learned clothing design from her mother and founded her brand, “Veekee James,” in 2019.
Her innovative designs earned her recognition, including Best Designer of the Year at the AMVCA and Hercomony Awards. She’s also known for her gospel concerts and podcast, “Bible Stories With Veekee James,” and her masterclass in fashion has impacted over 100 creatives worldwide.

Josiah Akinloye — 29 years old
Josiah Akinloye, known professionally as Lord Josiah, was born on May 9, 1994, in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and is an entrepreneur.
Akinloye is the Founder and CEO of MainLogix Technology Inc., specializing in IoT solutions for smart home automation, healthcare, and smart communities. Additionally, he founded Savycon Technology, a marketplace connecting skilled labour with service seekers.