Ezra Olubi is one of the most influential tech entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Best known as the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Paystack, his story highlights innovation, financial technology leadership, and cultural impact. This biography explores his age, background, state of origin, family life, career journey, controversies, net worth, and overall legacy.
Biography
Early Life and Family Background
Ezra Olubi was born on 12 November 1986 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Although he was born in Oyo State, he is originally from Ogun State, making him a proud Yoruba native.
He grew up in a Christian home and is believed to be the first son in his family. Several accounts mention that his parents were highly supportive of his academic and creative pursuits. He also has siblings, though their identities remain private.
Education
Ezra attended secondary school in Nigeria before gaining admission to Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. There he studied Computer Science and graduated around 2006. His interest in programming and technology developed early, laying the foundation for his future career in fintech.
Age
Born in 1986, Ezra Olubi is 38 years old as of 2025 and will turn 39 on 12 November 2025.
Marital Status
Ezra is not married, and there is no publicly confirmed information about him having a wife or children. He keeps his personal relationships private.
Career Overview
Early Career in Technology
After graduating, Ezra began his career as an IT Administrator before transitioning into software and web application development. He worked at several companies in Nigeria, building experience as a developer, engineer, and eventually a technology executive. His roles in various tech startups sharpened his skills and prepared him for larger ventures.
Co-Founding Paystack
In 2015, Ezra Olubi partnered with his university colleague, Shola Akinlade, to create Paystack, a payment platform designed to help African businesses accept online and offline payments.
Paystack quickly grew to become one of Nigeria’s most important fintech companies. It became the first Nigerian startup accepted into Y Combinator, gaining global recognition and investment.
In October 2020, Paystack was acquired by U.S. payments giant Stripe for a reported $200 million, marking one of the largest startup exits in African tech history. Ezra’s work as CTO played a major role in scaling Paystack into a global force in digital payments.
Awards and Achievements
- Received Nigeria’s national honour Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2022
- Recognized as a leading voice in Africa’s startup ecosystem
- Contributed significantly to improving digital payment infrastructure across Africa
Controversies and Criticisms
Like many public figures, Ezra has faced controversies:
2025 Suspension from Paystack
In 2025, he was reportedly suspended from Paystack following allegations of misconduct involving a subordinate and resurfaced old tweets that attracted criticism. The issue sparked widespread online discussion and became a major topic in Nigerian tech media.
Personal Style and Public Reaction
Ezra is widely known for his androgynous fashion choices, often wearing black lipstick, painted nails, and non-traditional attire. While many admire his confidence and individuality, others criticize or question his style. This has sometimes influenced public perception but has also made him a symbol of self-expression and non-conformity in Nigeria.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
Estimating Ezra Olubi’s net worth is challenging since he keeps his financial details private. However, based on available reports:
- His net worth is estimated at around $100 million as of 2025.
- Some conservative estimates place it between $40 million and $100 million.
- His wealth largely comes from his stake in Paystack and its acquisition by Stripe.
- He may also hold investments in startups and private ventures, though these are not publicly verified.
Legacy and Significance
Ezra Olubi’s legacy extends beyond business success:
1. Tech Innovation in Africa
His work with Paystack revolutionized online payments in Nigeria and helped thousands of small and medium-sized businesses transition into the digital economy.
2. Inspiration for Young Founders
Ezra’s rise from a young developer to co-founder of a global fintech company has inspired countless African entrepreneurs.
3. Cultural Impact
His bold approach to personal expression has sparked discussions about individuality, identity, and diversity within Nigeria’s corporate and tech spheres.
4. Long-Term Contribution
Despite any controversies, Ezra remains an important figure in African technology, and his influence will continue shaping the fintech ecosystem for years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Ezra Olubi?
He is 38 years old as of 2025.
2. What is Ezra Olubi’s state of origin?
He is from Ogun State, Nigeria.
3. What did Ezra study in university?
He studied Computer Science at Babcock University.
4. Is Ezra Olubi married?
No, he is not married and has no publicly confirmed wife or children.
5. What is Ezra Olubi’s estimated net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around $100 million, though exact figures are not confirmed.
6. What company did Ezra Olubi co-found?
He co-founded Paystack, a leading African payment processing company.
7. Has Ezra been involved in any controversies?
Yes. He was suspended in 2025 over misconduct allegations, and he has also faced public criticism over his androgynous style.
Disclaimer: This biography is compiled from publicly available information and is meant solely for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, certain details may vary or be open to interpretation.
