[OPINION] Wealth Redefined: A Philosophical And Economic Exploration Through Obi Cubana’s 50th Birthday Celebration In Nigeria

By Dr. Lucky Eleogu

A. INTRODUCTION
Advanced English dictionary defined Wealth as, “Large possessions; a comparative abundance of things which are objects of human desire; especially; abundance of worldly estate; affluence; opulence; money; riches”. Wealth also, in its most basic sense, is often associated with money and material possessions. However, in a deeper and broader context; philosophical, academic, and cultural; wealth is far more than the accumulation of riches. It embodies influence, social capital, power, and the capacity to effect change in a society. This article therefore explores the concept of wealth using the recent 50th birthday celebration of Nigerian billionaire and entrepreneur, Obi Cubana, as a case study, examining how his public display of affluence reflects the deeper meanings and implications of wealth in society and its impact on Nigeria’s economy.

B. DEFINING WEALTH BEYOND MONEY
Obviously, traditional definitions of wealth often focus on tangible assets such as money, real estate, and investments. In economics, wealth comprises not only financial capital but also human capital (knowledge, skills, and health) and social capital (networks and relationships). Academically, this comprehensive view is essential in analyzing the real power and function of wealth in any society.

Obi Cubana exemplifies this multi-dimensional wealth. As a successful businessman with investments in hospitality, entertainment, and real estate, he possesses significant financial capital. His leadership, brand identity, and entrepreneurial influence reflect his human capital. Perhaps most striking, however, is his social capital; the ability to convene Nigeria’s political, entertainment, and business elite at a personal celebration pulling together a conglomerate of political, industrial, entertainment and academic class to Abuja.

C. OBI CUBANA’S BIRTHDAY AS A DISPLAY OF WEALTH
The recent 50th birthday celebration of Obi Cubana was a national spectacle. With luxury vehicles, private jets, designer attire, celebrity attendance, expensive and costly displays of opulence, it became more than just a private event rather, it could be termed a cultural exhibition and moment of glamour. Social media buzzed for days and even now, and the entire event was televised and analyzed. One may be tempted to ask; What exactly does such a display say about wealth? Let’s elucidate on this with the outlined facts;
* It demonstrates influence which is the ability to attract, mobilize, and inspire a wide array of people across sectors.
* It expresses social power which of course entails the visible validation of success in a society where wealth must often be displayed to be believed.
* It creates economic activity where; event planners, vendors, artists, media houses, and hospitality workers benefited directly from the event and cashed out big boosting their investments.

D. PHILOSOPHICAL INTERPRETATIONS OF WEALTH
Firstly, according to the great philosopher and scholar, Plato on wealth and Justice;
who believed that wealth should serve justice and the collective good of the people. The question then arises: does a elaborate birthday party serve the public interest? If the wealth is also channeled into philanthropy, job creation, and empowerment; as witnessed in Abuja which Cubana is known for, then the answer may be taking as yes.

Secondly, Aristotle distinguished between natural wealth (needed for a good life) and unnatural wealth (money pursued for its own sake). Some critics might argue that such grand celebrations represent unnatural wealth. Yet, others may see it as a cultural expression; part of the human need for recognition, celebration, and connection.

Thirdly, in African traditional thought, particularly the Ubuntu philosophy (“I am because we are”), wealth is communal. Obi Cubana has incessantly said that, his success is tied to those he helped and who helped him. His support for young entrepreneurs, friends, and communities suggests that his understanding of wealth aligns, at least partly, with African communal values.

E. ECONOMIC IMPACT ON NIGERIA
Short-term Economic Stimulus: Events of this magnitude inject money (enough cash) into the local economy. I was watching over twenty persons finding it difficult to pack cash into sack bags. From florists to security personnel, many small businesses and workers benefitted from the demand generated by such high-profile celebration.

Job Creation: Though temporarily, events like Cubana’s birthday provided enough employment opportunities in logistics, entertainment, photography, transportation, content creation, media and more.

Cultural Inspiration against Societal Pressure: While some young Nigerians may find inspiration in Cubana’s success story especially those of them who are willing to learn, others may feel pressured to imitate such lifestyles, even unethically without understanding the fact that “there is no sweet without sweat”. This duality is a reflection of Nigeria’s complex relationship with wealth and status.

Exposure of Wealth Inequality: Celebrations of immense wealth in a country with widespread poverty often provoke public debate. Such displays highlight the stark contrast between Nigeria’s elite and the struggling majority, raising questions about equity, redistribution, and the role of the rich in national development. Whereas some persons criticize the celebration and display of wealth, others applaud the various empowerments associated with the crusade.

F. CONCLUSION
Obi Cubana’s 50th birthday celebration was more than a party; it was a powerful case study in the meaning and influence of wealth in modern-day Nigeria. It forces us to re-examine our definitions: Is wealth merely financial? Or is it the ability to command attention, create value, uplift others, and shape culture? Your answers speak volumes.

In the light of the foregoing, from philosophical ideals to economic implications and academic analysis, the celebration reflects both the promise and the pitfalls of wealth. In a country like Nigeria, where symbols are powerful and perception often equals reality, wealth must be both shown and shared. Ultimately, the true worth of wealth may not lie in how much one has, but in how much one gives, influences, and transforms. Obi Cubana was indeed positive on every side, no matter how you want to view it.

Dr. Lucky Eleogu is a senior staff with the Public Complaints Commission and a part time lecturer with the Nigerian British University.