Building wealth in Nigeria: how to use ETFs and compound interest to retire rich

Even at 40, wealth can still be your story

Let’s be honest. Many of us believe once you’ve crossed 35 or 40, the wealth train has left the station. We tell ourselves, “Ah, if only I started earlier, maybe by now…” But my friend, let me shock you gently: even at 40, you can still retire with billions if you apply discipline and play the long game.

Yes, billions. Not fantasy money. Real wealth backed by simple math and data.

So, before you fold your arms thinking life has passed you by, let me gist you properly. Grab a chilled malt and let’s talk.

The surprising numbers

If you save ₦1m monthly for the next 20 years, you would have put aside ₦240m. That’s not small money o. But that’s just savings, no growth, no compounding, nothing.

Now here’s where the real magic enters. If you take that same ₦1m monthly and invest it in just two simple ETFs, history shows you can end up with about $1.5 million (₦2.2 billion) in 20 years.

Did you see that difference? ₦240m vs ₦2.2bn. Same monthly effort, but two completely different destinies.

That’s the unfair power of compound interest.

The plan made simple

No rocket science here. Just two moves, every month, consistently.

• Put $350 (about ₦500k) monthly into VOO/VUAG → these track the top 500 US companies (Apple, Coca-Cola, Microsoft, etc.).
• Put another $350 (about ₦500k) monthly into VGT/XLKS → these focus on the big tech giants (Adobe, Microsoft, Google, etc.).

Why these two?

• The S&P 500 (VOO/VUAG) grows around 10% yearly on average.
• Tech ETFs like VGT/XLKS? They average 15–20% yearly.

When you mix both and stay consistent for 20 years, your money snowballs. That’s compound interest at work: your money earns returns, and those returns start earning their own returns. It’s like planting corn and harvesting a whole farm.

How to get started in Nigeria

Now you may be thinking, “Okay, but how do I even buy these ETFs from here in Naija?”

Thankfully, tech has made it simple. You don’t need Wall Street connections or to wear suit and tie. Just download these apps and start small:

• Nigeria → Bamboo, Trove, Risevest
• UK → Trading 212, Vanguard UK
• US → Fidelity, Robinhood, Vanguard
• Canada → Wealthsimple, Questrade

All you need to do is set up automatic monthly investing. No daily trading stress, no sitting in front of charts, no second-guessing. Just consistency.

Discipline beats timing

People always ask: “Is this the right time to invest?” My brother, my sister, the truth is discipline beats timing.

Nobody consistently predicts the market. But everyone who stays faithful for decades wins. That’s why even starting at 40 still works. Because 20 years of discipline is more powerful than 20 years of wishing.

Remember that scripture? “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9). That’s the whole principle of investing wrapped in one line.

Let’s keep it real

I know ₦1m monthly isn’t small money in today’s Nigeria. But think about it: if you already earn that level, discipline is your biggest barrier, not opportunity. And if you’re not at that level yet, this is still your playbook for when you get there.

Because here’s the truth: most people will waste more than ₦1m in 5 years on lifestyle and vibes, cars, trips, aso ebi, or latest gadgets. Nothing wrong with enjoyment, but if you don’t balance it with future planning, enjoyment today will become regret tomorrow.

So, even if you can’t do ₦1m monthly now, start with ₦50k, ₦100k, ₦200k. Build the habit first. The numbers will grow with you.

The best time is still today

They say the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time? Today.

It’s the same with your money. Don’t overthink it. Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Don’t let fear, excuses, or procrastination rob your future. Just start. Small or big, just start.

Because 20 years from now, you’ll either be glad you did… or wish you had.

Wealth isn’t magic. It’s not for early birds alone. It’s not even about luck. It’s about planning, discipline, and time.

So whether you’re 30, 40, or even 50, the lesson is the same: stop waiting, stop doubting, stop “hoping.” Take action.

The money you faithfully send into investments every month will grow into a testimony your future self will thank you for.

No more pity parties. No more excuses. Start today, build steadily, and let compound interest fight for you.

Grab the gist?