Nigerian entrepreneur and industrialist Cosmas Maduka has issued a sharp response to nightlife mogul Cubana Chiefpriest following remarks that compared him to some of the nation’s wealthiest business figures.
The latest back-and-forth comes months after both personalities were embroiled in controversy over the “Money na Water” comment, which generated widespread discussion online.
In his statement, Maduka dismissed the comparison, referring to it as “empty noise” from those lacking substance.
He emphasized that he would never place himself on the same level as prominent Nigerian billionaires like Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote.
Maduka highlighted that his rise to success was fueled by determination and hard work, starting from very modest beginnings.
He shared that he only completed up to third grade in school and described himself as a “street boy” who began life with nothing.
Despite these challenges, he climbed the ranks to serve on the boards of two publicly listed banks in Nigeria and eventually became chairman of a credit committee.
He also revealed that his expertise earned him an invitation from the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation in Vienna, and that his business operations now span five continents.
Maduka argued that his unique background distinguishes him from others who may have benefited from better educational or familial support.
“Don’t compare me to someone whose father provided the opportunity to get a BSc or MSc,” he said, a
Asserting that his accomplishments are the result of sheer perseverance and resilience.
Beyond his own success, Maduka outlined his commitment to empowering others.
He disclosed that in 2011, he set an ambitious target to mentor 1,000 billionaires in Nigeria, noting that, to date, 67 of his mentees have reached billionaire status.
