Nigerian comedian and business consultant, Damilare Oluwasegun, popularly known as AsiriComedy, has urged aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals to stop waiting for the perfect time and instead focus on creating solutions to real problems as a pathway to success.
He made this known while speaking at the TIME Conference 2026 hosted by 40under40 Nigeria, held on April 25, where he shared insights on business growth, timing, and personal development. According to Oluwasegun, opportunity is not defined by timing alone, but by the willingness to act when a need is identified. “Everytime you create solutions to problems is the right time,” he said, stressing that decisive action often separates successful individuals from the rest. Oluwasegun, who trains corporate executives on strategy, sustainability, influencer marketing, storytelling, and brand strategy, has also authored seven books under a pen name. Drawing from personal experience, he recounted how a simple classroom moment shaped his understanding of business.
“One particular incident changed my life about business,” he said. Recalling the experience, he explained that a lecturer once asked students to tear a sheet of paper during a class exercise. Noticing that many students did not have proper notebooks while he had extras, he initially gave out sheets for free. However, as demand increased, he recognized an opportunity. “Three people begged and I gave for free. But when the fourth person asked, it dawned on me that I could sell. Then, I sold it for N20, and he bought five for himself and his friends.
”That quick decision, he said, turned into a profitable venture within minutes. “Right there in the classroom, I made more than N3000. This was in 2008, when I was receiving N5000 for monthly upkeep. I identified a need and solved it,” he added. Building on that lesson, Oluwasegun stressed that many people limit themselves by seeking validation instead of taking initiative. He warned against overthinking and waiting for approval before acting. “You don’t ask for permission to shine. You simply take your space,” he said. “The problem with people is that they are looking for people to validate them. Is it the right time? Is it the best time? Am I good for this? No, you don’t ask for permission.”
He explained that relying on public opinion can hinder progress, as external voices may not always align with personal goals. “When you do, you’re subjecting your choice to public scrutiny, and the public does not have your good at hand,” he noted. Despite advocating bold action, Oluwasegun acknowledged that timing still plays a role in success, particularly through patience and strategic pauses. He described waiting as a necessary part of growth rather than a sign of inaction. “When you are working with time, waiting is also a strategy because pauses give rhythm to our journey,” he said, encouraging young people to avoid chasing overnight success and instead focus on steady, long-term growth.He further advised individuals to embrace adaptability and take action even without a perfect plan.
“Stop planning from the place of rest. Correct yourself on the move. Stop paralyzing yourself with analysis,” he said. According to him, there is no universal formula for success, and progress depends largely on boldness. “There’s no script for anyone to be successful in life. The difference between highflyers and mediocres is their audacity level,” he concluded. His message at the conference reinforces the need for entrepreneurs to act decisively, embrace uncertainty, and focus on solving real-world problems as a sustainable route to success.
