FLUTTERWAVE’S GLOBAL EXPANSION EARNS PRAISE FROM ERNEST NDUKWE

By: Fasasi Hammad
Board Chairman of MTN Nigeria transformation—from long queues at NITEL offices to the emergence of globally competitive fintech firms—while celebrating Flutterwave’s 10th anniversary and its growing impact on the international payments landscape.
Speaking at the company’s Gala Night at the prestigious Delborough Lagos, Ndukwe reflected on his tenure at the Nigerian Communications Commission under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, noting that early-2000s telecom reforms dismantled systemic inefficiencies and opened the door for private-sector innovation.
He recalled that, before liberalisation, Nigerians endured long waits to make international calls—a challenge eliminated after the 2001 telecom revolution. That transformation, he said, laid the foundation for today’s thriving digital economy, enabling companies like Flutterwave to succeed.
Ndukwe described Flutterwave as “an international company made in Nigeria,” emphasizing that its adherence to global standards showcases the potential of local enterprises when supported by the right policies. He expressed admiration for Flutterwave’s growth over the past decade, calling its achievements remarkable.
However, he warned that continued success would require strong institutional discipline. “Corporate governance is very important. Success can go two ways: it can either make you lose your head or make you concentrate more,” he said, urging the company’s leadership to maintain focus as it expands into new markets.
He also stressed that excellence demands continuity, noting, “the reward for hard work is more work,” underscoring the need for sustained innovation through consistent effort.
Ndukwe further acknowledged early pioneers in Nigeria’s digital payments ecosystem, including John Obaro, founder of SystemSpecs and creator of Remita, the platform used by the Federal Government for revenue collection. He described such innovators as senior figures whose contributions strengthened the broader fintech ecosystem.
Concluding his remarks, the MTN Nigeria board chairman expressed confidence in Flutterwave’s trajectory and assured the company of continued industry support as it deepens its footprint across Africa and globally.
