In Nigeria’s noisy political landscape, few names spark heated debate like Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. For some, Seyi’s growing influence in politics and business is nothing but a classic tale of nepotism — the son of a political giant simply reaping the fruits of a family name. But for many who know the real story, his journey is far more layered and worth telling with some balance and fairness.
First, it’s important to acknowledge the obvious: Yes, Seyi Tinubu was born into political power and privilege. It would be naive to pretend otherwise. But it’s equally naive to assume that’s the only reason he has become one of the most talked-about young figures in Nigeria’s socio-political space. To dismiss his contributions and work ethic outright is to overlook how he has leveraged the Tinubu name to drive real projects, empower youth, and promote modern governance conversations in ways many of his peers have not.
A closer look at his career shows that Seyi Tinubu did not just stroll into relevance. He built a name in business before dipping his toes deeper into politics. As the founder of Loatsad Promomedia, he made bold moves in the advertising and outdoor media sector, transforming how digital billboards and urban advertising work in Lagos and beyond. Unlike many privileged young Nigerians who remain content with living off a trust fund or political appointments, Seyi chose to build a visible, revenue-generating enterprise that today employs Nigerians and boosts local economic activity.
Beyond business, Seyi Tinubu has repeatedly shown interest in philanthropy and youth empowerment. His ST Foundation has become known for supporting young entrepreneurs, funding educational initiatives, and promoting causes that help Nigeria’s next generation. While cynics may scoff that this is mere PR, the reality on the ground is that real people have benefited. For them, it does not matter whose son he is; what matters is that he showed up when others didn’t.
Politically, Seyi’s involvement has also been strategic rather than loud or reckless. He is not the first or only child of a political leader to step into the ring, but he is arguably one of the few who have done so with a relatively modern touch. Instead of wielding raw power for its own sake, he has focused on youth mobilization, digital communication, and changing how young Nigerians connect with politics. At a time when many Nigerians feel disconnected from old-guard politics, Seyi Tinubu’s approach, which combines social media savvy with community-level engagement, represents a bridge between an older generation and an increasingly restless youth population.
Of course, the criticisms won’t stop. Nigerians are rightly suspicious of dynastic politics. The country has seen too many family names become monopolies of power. But there’s a difference between undeserved privilege and using a platform to make an impact. In the case of Seyi Tinubu, the evidence suggests that he’s trying to do the latter. He shows up at youth events, supports young creatives, partners on social impact projects, and uses his network to open doors for others.
Moreover, for those who see his rise as purely a result of nepotism, the real test is simple: If Seyi Tinubu were to step away from his father’s shadow today, would he still have an audience? The answer is increasingly yes. His business record, youth initiatives, and growing connections among young Nigerians give him an independent base that’s not just a by-product of the Tinubu dynasty.
In the end, Nigerians deserve to hold their leaders and their children accountable — that’s democracy. But merit should not be overshadowed by easy labels. Seyi Tinubu’s journey so far is proof that while a famous name can open the door, it is hard work, relevance, and delivery that keep it open. If he continues on this path, his story might just inspire a generation that has grown tired of old ways, giving them a reason to believe that young Nigerians — even those born to privilege — can choose merit over entitlement.
Whether you agree with him or not, Seyi Tinubu’s rapid rise is a story that reminds us that in Nigeria, it is still possible to earn respect by doing the work, even if your last name does some of the talking.
