Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has lauded Flutterwave founder Olugbenga Agboola, popularly known as GB, for his visionary approach to recognising and capitalising on economic opportunities, describing the company as Africa’s largest and most influential fintech enterprise.
Obasanjo made the remarks during Flutterwave’s 10th‑anniversary Gala Night at the luxury The Delborough Lagos, which attracted political leaders, business executives, and cultural icons to celebrate a decade of innovation and excellence in digital financial services.
In his address, the former president highlighted the transformative impact of strategic opportunity utilisation in entrepreneurship and technology.
He noted that Agboola’s ability to identify emerging prospects has been instrumental in Flutterwave’s rise as a continental fintech powerhouse.
“Many people don’t get that type of opportunity,” Obasanjo said.
“Understanding and acting on emerging prospects often separates success from obscurity. GB’s recognition and seizing of opportunities is critical in driving innovation that competes globally.”
Obasanjo also drew attention to the broader economic shifts in Nigeria that paved the way for tech-driven ventures, including reforms in the telecommunications sector during his presidency.
He recalled that the auction of GSM licences not only generated significant revenue for the country but also catalysed growth in information and communications technology—a precursor to today’s fintech boom.
The former president commended Agboola’s entrepreneurial vision and Flutterwave’s evolution from addressing basic cross-border payment inefficiencies to becoming “a fintech powerhouse, largest in Africa.”
The gala, which marked a decade of digital finance innovation, celebrated Flutterwave’s achievements in expanding financial inclusion, facilitating seamless payments across borders, and shaping Africa’s tech ecosystem.
