MTN Chairman Ndukwe Applauds Flutterwave's Continental Reach at Anniversary Gala
Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, the Board Chairman of MTN Nigeria, has publicly commended Flutterwave on its remarkable global expansion during the fintech company's 10th anniversary celebration. Speaking at a prestigious Gala Night held at 'The Delborough Lagos', Ndukwe highlighted how Nigeria's digital transformation has paved the way for homegrown companies to achieve international recognition.
From NITEL Queues to Fintech Frontiers
Ndukwe traced Nigeria's technological journey from the era of inefficient state-run telecommunications to today's vibrant digital economy. He recalled the long queues at NITEL offices where Nigerians endured frustrating waits to make international calls, a stark contrast to the seamless digital payments enabled by modern fintech firms.
The telecom reforms initiated under former President Olusegun Obasanjo in the early 2000s were crucial in dismantling systemic barriers and creating an environment conducive to private sector innovation. Ndukwe, who served at the Nigerian Communications Commission during this transformative period, emphasized that these policy changes laid the essential groundwork for companies like Flutterwave to flourish.
Flutterwave: A Nigerian-Made International Success
Describing Flutterwave as "an international company made in Nigeria," Ndukwe praised its ability to meet and exceed global standards in the competitive payments ecosystem. He noted with admiration how the company has grown over the past decade, expanding its operations across multiple continents while maintaining its Nigerian roots.
However, the MTN chairman issued a crucial warning about the challenges of sustained growth. "Corporate governance is very important," he cautioned. "Success can go two ways - it can either make you lose your head or make you concentrate more." He urged Flutterwave's leadership to maintain discipline and focus as they scale operations across new markets.
The Foundation of Digital Innovation
Ndukwe also acknowledged the pioneering contributions of earlier innovators in Nigeria's digital payment infrastructure. He specifically mentioned John Obaro, founder of SystemSpecs and creator of Remita, the platform used by the Federal Government for revenue collection. These senior figures, according to Ndukwe, strengthened the broader financial technology ecosystem that enabled later successes like Flutterwave.
The MTN chairman emphasized that excellence requires continuous effort, noting that "the reward for hard work is more work." This principle, he suggested, must guide Flutterwave and other Nigerian tech companies as they navigate the challenges of international expansion.
Confidence in Future Trajectory
Concluding his remarks, Ndukwe expressed strong confidence in Flutterwave's future direction. He assured the company of continued support from industry stakeholders as it deepens its footprint across Africa and beyond. The anniversary celebration thus served not only as recognition of past achievements but also as a platform for discussing the governance frameworks necessary for sustainable global growth.
The event highlighted how Nigeria's telecom revolution, initiated two decades ago, continues to yield dividends through companies that transform local innovation into international success stories.
