By Ali Hope and Joy Alinta Jimmy

Nigerian screenwriter and author of children’s books. Nnaemeka Charles Eze. Populalrly known as Nani Boi, has called on young people to discover their purpose early and take up leadership roles with integrity, saying the future belongs to those who prepare for it today.

The celebrated author, entrepreneur, delivered inspiring message to students during a leadership summitat the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Agbani, where he emphasized the importance of self-discovery, and active participation in societal development.

Speaking at the event, Nani Boi revealed that although he had not prepared extensively due to tight schedules, the warm reception from students motivated him to address them with sincerity. “When I saw the crowd that waited for me, I was inspired to speak to them,” he said.

He reflected on the failures of past leadership structures, stressing that many of today’s societal challenges stem from opportunities denied to younger generations. Using former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani as an example of early leadership achievement, he urged students to nurture their talents and potentials from a young age. “If we begin now to nurture our talents, there is nothing we cannot achieve,” he noted.

The multi-talented creative also lamented what he described as a decline in student activism, saying many student bodies have become compromised. “During their time, we had student activists. What we have now is ‘cash-vists,’” he remarked, He challenged students to stand for their peers and uphold the values of true representation.

Nani Boi expressed joy in participating in the program, adding that his greatest fulfillment came from impacting young listeners. He encouraged them to remain focused despite current challenges. “No matter what you are facing today, if you stay strong, you’ll overcome,” he assured.

Offering life advice, he told students not to worry excessively about problems. “If you cannot solve a problem, don’t worry about it. If you can solve it, don’t worry about it. Just make sure you are doing your best,” he said.

He also urged young people to seek the purpose behind their existence, reminding them that impact does not require wealth. “You don’t have to wait till you become a billionaire before you begin to impact people’s lives. You can start now,” he said, emphasizing that leadership works best when followers also play their roles responsibly.

Nani Boi is a Nigerian screenwriter, author, filmmaker, musician, and radio presenter, famous for writing over 100 popular children’s books, including the nostalgic series enjoyed by Nigerian students. He’s a versatile talent from Enugu, known for adapting his books into films, producing movies, and being a key figure in the local entertainment scene, often called the “voice of the east”.