By Micah Jonah
January 9, 2026
Nigerian billionaire businessman and philanthropist Cosmas Maduka has shared a personal reflection on his life journey, attributing his rise from poverty to faith, resilience and the principles of Jesus Christ.
In a post published on his official Facebook page, Maduka disclosed that he does not possess a primary school certificate, lost his father at the age of four, experiences that shaped a difficult childhood marked by ridicule and hardship.
“Those who went to school used to call me a shop rat while growing up,” he wrote, recalling the social stigma he faced as a young trader.
Maduka said his life took a decisive turn when he gave his life to Jesus as a teenager, describing the moment as the foundation of both his personal transformation and business success.
“I learned about business from Jesus. The principles of Jesus form all my business secrets,” he stated, adding that without attending any business school, biblical teachings guided him in building a global enterprise.
Despite lacking formal academic qualifications, Maduka revealed that he has served on the boards of two publicly quoted banks, underscoring what he described as the power of grace, divine favour.
He said his business interests now span five continents and 15 African countries, forming a multibillion dollar empire that he credits entirely to God.
“All these things could not have been possible without Jesus. I am nothing without the grace and help of God,” he wrote.
Maduka concluded the message with a prayer for his followers, expressing hope that grace would overcome limitations in the year ahead.
“Despite your limitations, grace will lift you up in 2026, in Jesus’ name. Jesus will give you an unfair advantage in the marketplace this year, 2026,” he said, inviting readers to affirm the message by typing “Amen”.
