Young Nigerians have been urged to embrace consistency, discipline and visibility in their personal and professional pursuits to achieve sustainable growth and build successful brands.
Personal development advocate, Ayo Akande, popularly known as AY Nigeria, gave the advice on Saturday in Ado-Ekiti during the launch of his new book, Rules of Engagement: What They Don’t Teach You About Life, Power and Becoming.
The book launch, held on October 10, 2026, at the Ekiti State Startup Garage, coincided with the author’s birthday and attracted students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and other dignitaries.
Akande advised young people and entrepreneurs to stop waiting for perfect conditions before pursuing their ambitions, stressing that they could start with the resources available to them and improve along the way.
He also challenged youths who believe Ekiti State offers limited business opportunities to reconsider their position and explore the potential within their environment.
The author encouraged entrepreneurs to build distinctive brands around their skills, crafts and businesses, noting that effective branding and visibility could attract customers, expand opportunities and promote business growth.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the book, Akande said the publication was not written merely to acquire the title of an author or generate income from sales, but to make a meaningful contribution to his generationHe explained that the 24-chapter book was developed over two years and drew from his personal experiences, reflections and lessons on life.
According to him, the publication is designed as a practical workbook covering personal development, leadership, power, influence and nation-building.
Akande noted that the book addresses lessons young people often learn through disappointments, discouragement, difficult experiences and personal struggles, adding that readers could revisit relevant chapters as they navigate different stages of life.
He urged young Nigerians to obtain copies of the book and share its lessons with others, particularly those seeking to improve their leadership skills and personal development.
The event also featured the eighth edition of Connect and Grow with AY Nigeria, a platform focused on youth development, networking and the exchange of ideas.
Also speaking, a scholar, Dr. Sikiru Olowoyo, commended Akande for his consistency and commitment to mentoring young people in Ekiti State and beyond.
Olowoyo recalled Akande’s early involvement in youth-focused initiatives, including school outreach programmes, noting that he had remained dedicated to youth development over the years.
He described the book launch as another milestone in Akande’s efforts to empower young people, adding that the publication would provide a wider platform for sharing knowledge and experiences on personal growth, leadership and nation-building.
Olowoyo also praised the author for investing time and effort in producing the book and expressed optimism that it would positively influence young Nigerians.
Akande, in turn, acknowledged the contributions of his mentors, family, friends and associates to his journey, while appreciating the publisher and printer for helping to bring the book to completion.
