Ezra Olubi Biography: Age, Parents, Tribe, Family, Net Worth, Wikipedia, State of Origin

Ezra Olubi is a Nigerian software engineer, entrepreneur, and one of the co-founders and chief technology officers (CTO) behind Paystack — the fintech startup that helped reshape online payments in Nigeria and across Africa.

Known for his technical prowess, bold personal style, and public advocacy for LGBTIQ rights, Olubi is a prominent figure in Africa’s tech ecosystem.

This biography dives into his early life, education, career milestones, public image, controversies, and what his legacy looks like so far.

Profile

• Full Name: Ezra Olubi
• Born: 12 November 1986
• Age: ~38 years old (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
• State of Origin: Oyo State
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Occupation: Entrepreneur, Software Engineer, Mobile App Developer, Co-founder & CTO of Paystack
• Religion: Christianity
• Spouse / Partner / Relationship Status: Not publicly disclosed; there’s no reliable public information on a spouse.
• Children: Not publicly documented
• Net Worth: Estimated around US$100 million by several sources.

Early Life and Education

Ezra Olubi was born on November 12, 1986, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. He attended Babcock University where he studied computer engineering — a foundation that would later shape his career as a software developer and technology leader. Early exposure to programming and a passion for solving problems with code set the stage for a career in tech.

The Paystack Story: Building a Payments Engine

In 2016, Ezra Olubi and Shola Akinlade co-founded Paystack, a startup focused on simplifying online payments for Nigerian businesses. Olubi led the technical side as CTO, building scalable systems and integrations that made it easier for merchants to accept card and mobile payments. Paystack’s combination of developer-first APIs, reliability, and local payment methods helped the company grow rapidly and become one of Africa’s most important fintech success stories.

One of Paystack’s landmark moments came in October 2020 when Stripe acquired the company — a deal widely reported in tech press and heralded as a major validation of African fintech. That acquisition amplified Paystack’s founders’ profiles and signaled international confidence in African fintech infrastructure.

Ezra’s Technical Philosophy and Influence

As CTO, Olubi has been described as a hands-on technologist who values clean APIs, developer experience, and resilient infrastructure. Paystack’s engineering approach emphasized observability, simplicity for integrators, and strong security practices — principles that often get credited for the platform’s rapid adoption among developers and online merchants. His technical leadership helped set engineering standards that influenced other fintech startups in Nigeria.

Personal Style and Advocacy

Ezra Olubi is also widely known for his androgynous and boundary-pushing fashion choices — wearing lipstick, polished nails, and clothing that defies traditional masculine norms. His public style and advocacy for LGBTIQ rights have made him a visible and sometimes polarizing cultural figure in Nigeria. While he identifies as heterosexual in public statements, his presentation and activism have contributed to conversations about gender expression and inclusion in tech and society.

Recognition and Awards

Olubi and his Paystack co-founder have received several recognitions over the years. Notably, both founders were conferred national honors in Nigeria — a moment that highlighted the growing recognition of tech entrepreneurship as a national asset. These awards also brought Ezra into the public eye beyond tech circles, drawing attention to both his professional achievements and his distinctive personal style.

Controversies and Recent Events

While Ezra’s career has been marked by notable successes, he has also faced controversies. In late 2025, reports surfaced about old social-media posts and other allegations that prompted public backlash and action by Paystack — including suspension pending investigation, according to press coverage. These events are significant because they affect public perceptions and raise questions about accountability, workplace culture, and how organizations handle reputational risk. (Readers should check the most recent reporting for updates, as these situations can evolve quickly.)

Public Impact and Legacy

Ezra Olubi’s influence is multifaceted: he helped build one of Africa’s most successful fintech startups, challenged gender norms through personal expression, and brought attention to issues of inclusion. For many in the Nigerian tech community, his leadership at Paystack demonstrates how local engineering talent can build world-class products. At the same time, the controversies serve as a reminder that public leaders are scrutinized and must navigate both personal expression and professional responsibilities.

What We Can Learn from Ezra Olubi’s Journey

• Technical focus fuels scale: Building robust, developer-centered products can accelerate adoption in emerging markets.
• Visibility matters: Public profiles amplify both achievements and criticisms — becoming a visible leader means increased scrutiny.
• Culture and accountability: Startups need strong governance to manage reputational risks as they scale.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Ezra Olubi?

Ezra Olubi is a Nigerian software engineer and entrepreneur, best known as a co-founder and CTO of Paystack.

When and where was Ezra Olubi born?

He was born on November 12, 1986, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

What is Paystack and what was Ezra’s role?

Paystack is a Nigerian fintech company that simplifies online payments. Ezra served as co-founder and CTO, leading technical development.

Was Paystack acquired?

Yes — Paystack was acquired by Stripe in 2020, a move widely reported as a major validation for African fintech.

Is Ezra Olubi an activist?

Ezra is recognized for his advocacy around gender expression and LGBTIQ issues; his visible style and public comments have contributed to social conversations on inclusion.

Has Ezra been involved in any controversies?

Reports in late 2025 described resurfaced social-media posts and allegations that led to public backlash and a suspension by Paystack pending investigation. Check current news for updates.

Conclusion

Ezra Olubi’s story is one of technical achievement, cultural visibility, and complex public scrutiny. From his early days in Ibadan and education at Babcock University to co-founding Paystack and helping build infrastructure used across Africa, his influence on the continent’s fintech landscape is clear. At the same time, recent controversies highlight how leadership, personal expression, and accountability intersect in the public eye. Whether you admire him for his engineering contributions, his advocacy, or both — Ezra Olubi remains a consequential figure in modern Nigerian technology.