Veteran Nigerian entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as CharlyBoy or AreaFada, has praised the interaction between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and young creatives behind the popular show Curiosity Made Me Ask, describing the encounter as an example of how opportunities can help bridge generational gaps.
CharlyBoy made the remarks in a post shared on his X account on Tuesday, following Obasanjo’s appearance on the show hosted by comedian and content creator Bae U.
Reflecting on the former president’s participation, CharlyBoy noted that one of the greatest things older people can offer young Nigerians is not necessarily financial support, but opportunities to showcase their abilities.
He highlighted Obasanjo’s willingness to participate in a programme whose style and format differ significantly from what the former president may traditionally be associated with.
According to him, Obasanjo did not simply appear on the programme with a formal demeanour but engaged with the younger generation on their own terms, allowing Nigerians to see a different side of his personality.
CharlyBoy attributed the connection to the role played by young people around the programme, stressing that his own belief in their work was instrumental in creating the opportunity for Obasanjo to enter their space.
He used the development to encourage members of the older generation to support young people by creating opportunities, opening doors, making recommendations and trusting them with responsibilities.
“Don’t only tell young people to succeed. Give them room. Open doors. Recommend them. Trust them with opportunities,” he said.
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CharlyBoy also urged young Nigerians to take responsibility for building their own platforms and preparing themselves to maximise opportunities when they arise.
He stressed that while mentorship and access can make a difference, young people must also create work that inspires others to believe in their potential.
The entertainer described the interaction between Obasanjo and the younger creators as an illustration of how collaboration between generations can benefit both sides.
He said older people should be willing to enter the spaces created by younger Nigerians and understand what they are building, while young people should remain prepared to take advantage of opportunities offered to them.
“When generations support each other, everybody gets to grow,” CharlyBoy said, describing such an approach as the essence of how legacy should work.
Obasanjo’s appearance on Curiosity Made Me Ask attracted attention because of the informal and unconventional nature of the programme, which has become known for placing public figures in relaxed conversations and humorous situations.
For CharlyBoy, the encounter demonstrates how influence, openness and access can create meaningful connections between generations while giving young creators the opportunity to expand their reach and demonstrate their capabilities.