Gen Z’ with a difference: How a Jos barber is changing lives through Facebook appeals

In a world where young people are often stereotyped as being driven by instant gratification and digital distractions, a different story is unfolding in Plateau State. PALANG KASMI tells the remarkable story of 26-year-old Alexander Pius Ameh, a barber, student and humanitarian whose quiet acts of kindness—funded largely through social media appeals—are restoring hope to indigent patients, orphans and vulnerable communities across the state

Contrary to assertions that ‘Gen Zs’ are only interested in the fast lane of life and quick wealth, 26-year-old barber, philanthropist and humanitarian, Alexander Ameh, is charting a different path in Plateau State, Nigeria.

He is a 400-level Science Laboratory Technology student at the University of Jos. Popularly known as Alex, he has been assisting indigent hospital patients who cannot afford to offset their medical bills.

He has also brought hope and attention to patients with little or no financial support, while using his barbering skills to offer free haircuts in hospitals, orphanages and schools as a way of touching lives.

A Childhood of struggles, a heart for service

For Jos-born Alex, the fourth of five siblings, the inspiration for his humanitarian journey is rooted in his upbringing and personal experiences.

He said life became more difficult after the passing of his father in 2018, but he continued to navigate the challenges with hope and determination.

“Growing up wasn’t easy. I was not born with a silver spoon, so I didn’t have the opportunity to enjoy many basic privileges,” he said.

“But my first inspiration came from my mum. Growing up, I watched her open her heart and hands to people, even though she didn’t have much herself. She taught me that kindness is not about how much you have but how willing you are to help.”

He also traced a defining moment to his early days as a barber.

“One day, a young boy of about 12 came for a haircut, and I completely messed it up. My boss told me I was the worst person he had ever trained. I cried that day,” he recalled.

“In that moment, I promised God that if I ever became good at it, I would use it to give back through charity. I worked harder and improved. I’m grateful to my boss, Mr Ahmed, popularly called Mr Magnificent, for not giving up on me.”

Social media as a tool for compassion

Alex’s interventions, though not backed by personal wealth, have reportedly run into millions of naira in impact, reaching patients in hospitals, prisons, IDP camps and other vulnerable spaces.

“My interventions are not just limited to hospitals. I also organise free haircut outreaches in orphanages, schools, hospitals, Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and even on the streets,” he said.

He added that many of his interventions are driven through social media appeals, especially Facebook, where supporters respond to verified cases.

According to him, trust has been built over time through transparency and accountability.

“Over the years, I have built trust by remaining transparent, accountable, and ensuring that every intervention is properly documented,” he said.

One of his most emotional experiences involved a young girl named Rejoice, who suffered from a perforated typhoid condition requiring complex medical intervention.

Although she initially survived after treatment funded through his intervention, she later passed away after a corrective surgery.

“That moment was one of the most painful in this journey,” Alex said.

Hope, loss, a continuing mission

Despite the emotional toll of some cases, Alex insists the mission remains meaningful.

“They remind me that while we cannot save everyone, we can ensure that no one feels abandoned in their most difficult moments,” he said.

Broadcast journalist Mrs Oyebola Albarka of Highland FM, Jos, also described a personal encounter with him as unforgettable, recalling how he anonymously assisted a critically ill patient with ₦20,000 in hospital support.

Similarly, Suleiman Muhammad Sani, Executive Director of the TORRO Centre for Care and Support for Adolescent Children and Women, described Alex as a committed humanitarian whose interventions cut across health, education and social welfare.

According to him, their collaboration has involved sensitive medical and social cases requiring counselling and psychosocial support.

Sani said Alex’s commitment reflects “the true essence of humanitarian service”, adding that his work has restored hope to many vulnerable individuals and families.

Future aspirations, advice to Gen Z

Looking ahead, Alex says he is determined to expand his impact through a structured organisation.

“One of my major goals is to register an NGO and build a team of like-minded individuals who share the same passion for humanity,” he said.

He also hopes to establish orphanages, quality schools for underprivileged children, and sustainable programmes for medical and social support.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” he added.

To young people, especially Gen Zs, he advised responsible use of social media.

“My advice is to use social media intentionally and positively. It can be a blessing or a burden depending on how it is used,” he said.

“Your digital footprint is your reputation. Every post and interaction matters. Use it to educate, inspire and uplift others.”