Founder of Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmas Maduka, has expressed disappointment over missing the opportunity to invest in Nigeria’s fintech giant Flutterwave, describing the company as one of Africa’s most successful and globally respected financial technology brands.

Maduka spoke during Flutterwave’s 10th anniversary gala night held at The Delborough Lagos, where he reflected on the company’s remarkable growth and global recognition.

“The only thing that surprises me is how did you people bypasses me? There was no opportunity to tell me; Uncle, can we put money together? I don’t like good things passing me by,” he said.

The business magnate described Flutterwave’s rise as a testament to innovation, clarity of vision, and the entrepreneurial strength of Nigerians despite prevailing national challenges.

He also acknowledged the role of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, crediting his administration with establishing economic reforms that encouraged private sector growth. According to Maduka, leadership should prioritise creating enabling environments that allow citizens to thrive.

“Leaders set the foundation and give people opportunity. Once that opportunity exists, Nigerians will prove that there is no limitation to what we can achieve,” he said.

Maduka urged young Nigerians to remain resilient and committed to national development, citing Flutterwave’s decade-long journey as proof that homegrown innovation can elevate Nigeria’s global standing.

Sharing his personal journey, the entrepreneur recalled losing his father at an early age and being unable to pursue formal education beyond primary school. He revealed that he once rejected pressure to remain abroad, opting instead to return to Nigeria to build his business.

“To be a true Nigerian, you must share in her shame and glory,” he said, adding that his decision to return eventually paid off as Coscharis expanded internationally, including business acquisitions in Japan where Nigerians now employ expatriates.

Addressing entrepreneurship, Maduka cautioned young people against depending solely on salaried employment, stressing the importance of developing value-driven businesses.

“Salary is medicine for poverty; it does not cure it,” he said, urging youths to identify their talents and create enterprises capable of generating wealth and employment opportunities.

He further commended Flutterwave’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, Olugbenga Agboola, for projecting a positive image of Nigeria on the global stage, noting that tangible achievements remain the most effective response to criticism.

Maduka also praised Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for supporting initiatives that promote innovation and job creation, stressing the need for strong institutional support for technology and enterprise-focused events.

The gala night, which marked Flutterwave’s 10 years of operations in the fintech sector, attracted prominent political figures, business leaders, and entertainment personalities from across Africa. (Leadership)