Membrs’ Profile: Mathew Egu

In this edition of CFO Club Africa’s Members Spotlight, we are introducing Mathew Egu, a distinguished academic, advisor, and entrepreneur whose career spans over two decades and multiple disciplines. With extensive experience in academia, business development, and strategic advisory roles, he is currently a Professor at the Global Humanistic University, a DBL Supervisor at UNISA’s Graduate School of Business Leadership, and a Visiting Professor at Finance University under the Government of the Russian Federation. Mathew’s impressive educational background includes a PhD in Management Studies with a focus on entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial financing, along with qualifications in international business, law (in progress), and IT development. His journey reflects a dedication to fostering innovation, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and driving impactful solutions across industries.

Mathew Eleojo Egu

• Professor, Global Humanistic University (2018-present)
• DBL Supervisor, Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL) (2023-present)
• Visiting Professor, Finance University under the Government of the Russian Federation (2023-present)
• Academic Editor, TopEdit Author Services (USA) (2022-present)
• Advisor, visasQ inc. (Tokyo, Japan) (2019-present)
• Advisor, Guidepoint Global (2010-present)

Previously:

• Editorial Board Member, International Journal of Economics, Finance and Management Sciences (IJEFM) (NY, USA) (2019)
• Ambassador, JOBLIO, INC. (Nigeria) (2021)
• Listing Partner, P2PB2B Exchange (Estonia) (2020)
• Partner & Ambassador for Africa, Coinsbit Exchange (Nigeria) (2020)
• Founder and CEO, YourBestBuyMall.com (2017)
• Regional Manager, Château d’Etienne (Nigeria) (2017)
• Business Development Manager, EMEA, TAGZ GROUP PTY LTD (Australia) (2017)
• Regional Manager, SHORTEX CryptoExchange (South Africa) (2019)
• Senior DSA, First City Monument Bank Pls (Nigeria) (2018)
• Sales & Technical Manager, Apple (2008)

Qualifications:

• PhD in Management Studies (Entrepreneurship & Entrepreneurial financing), University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
• MAdmin in Business Management (International Business & Strategy), University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
• BSc (Honours) in Business Administration (Second Class Upper), Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, Nigeria
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB), University of London, London, United Kingdom (in view)
• NIIT Certified Solutions Developer, NIIT, Lagos, Nigeria

Country of Residence:

• Nigeria

Visit Mathew’s LinkedIn Page:

Click Here

What time do you usually wake up on weekdays?

I’m more of an early riser on weekdays! I usually start my day with the sunrise, right around 6 a.m. There’s something about the quiet morning hours that feels refreshing, like the world is waking up alongside me. I find it’s the best time for gathering thoughts, planning the day, or tackling tasks that need a clear mind.

That said, I do enjoy the late-night calm occasionally—sometimes it’s the best time for creativity to spark. But overall, I work best with the morning light.

How do you spend the first hour of your day? 

In that first hour, I set the tone for a good day ahead! I start with a glass of water to wake up, then ease into the morning with some light stretching or a quick workout to shake off any sleepiness. Next, I pour myself a warm cup of tea (my morning ritual) and savor it while jotting down my priorities for the day. I find that this blend of movement, caffeine, and planning gives me focus and energy right from the start.

Having said that, I can totally relate to the peaceful vibe of tea with breakfast—such a grounding way to prepare for what’s to come!

What sparked your interest in finance? 

My interest in finance began as a curiosity about solving financial puzzles, almost like trying to decode a complex, real-world game. Crunching numbers can be challenging, but I found myself drawn to the logic and strategy it requires. This fascination grew into a goal: to understand how wealth could be accumulated and preserved, creating a foundation not only for personal growth but also for long-term prosperity.

The journey felt even more inspiring as I watched bankers and financial advisors at work. Their insight and calm precision in managing financial complexities deeply resonated with me, making finance seem like both a science and an art. Seeing how they could turn complex data into meaningful decisions for growth encouraged me to pursue a career in this field. Finance, to me, represents a blend of challenge, opportunity, and impact—and it’s a field where every answer to a problem could lead to transformative results.

Can you share some career highlights and defining moments?  

Some of the most defining moments in my career have been milestones that marked both personal and professional growth. Earning my Ph.D. was certainly one of those moments—it represented years of dedication, exploration, and resilience, deepening my expertise and giving me the foundation to make a meaningful impact in my field. Not long after, achieving my CFO (SA) designation felt like a crowning accomplishment, signifying not just technical skill but the strategic insight that comes with experience and growth in leadership.

In addition, traveling abroad for international conferences has also been an unforgettable experience. Besides, engaging with global experts, sharing ideas, and gaining fresh perspectives on finance and economic trends have been both inspiring and humbling. Each conference felt like stepping into a new world of knowledge and collaboration, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning and broadening my outlook.

These moments stand out because they’re not just achievements—they’re experiences that have shaped who I am and fueled my commitment to making a difference in finance.

How do you handle professional challenges? 

When faced with professional challenges, my approach begins with gaining a thorough understanding of the issue at hand. I like to break down each element, exploring it from every angle to get a clear picture of what’s truly driving the difficulty. This helps me identify potential solutions that are practical and impactful.

Another key element is managing the emotions around the challenge. I find that remaining calm—and helping others involved do the same—creates a productive environment for solving the issue. Moreover, keeping a level head allows everyone to focus on the solution rather than the problem’s stressors, opening constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Ultimately, my strategy revolves around patience, analysis, and teamwork. By dissecting the problem and involving others, I find that even the most complex obstacles can be navigated effectively. This approach has not only helped me resolve individual challenges but has also strengthened my ability to think critically and strategically in the face of adversity.

What future goals are you excited about? 

Looking ahead, I’m excited to channel my expertise into the public sphere, with an eye on political appointments where I can make a tangible difference. I’m drawn to the idea of applying my financial and strategic acumen on a larger scale, contributing not just to individual organizations but to society at large. The prospect of influencing policy, driving economic growth, and helping shape a sustainable future for my country—and possibly beyond—feels both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Furthermore, I believe that impactful leadership lies in combining technical know-how with a genuine commitment to the public good. I’m motivated by the potential to bring financial insight to governance, tackling pressing issues with solutions rooted in both fiscal responsibility and social equity. Whether it’s enhancing economic policies or fostering inclusive growth, I want to be part of initiatives that uplift communities and strengthen our shared future.

This next phase feels like a natural extension of my career journey—an opportunity to use my skills and experience to contribute to meaningful change.

Have you had any international or different cultural experiences in your career?  

Throughout my career, working across borders and engaging with diverse teams has been incredibly enriching. One of my early insights was how deeply cultural values shape professional dynamics. For instance, I learned that the British place a high value on punctuality—a respect for time that brings a disciplined efficiency to every meeting. Americans, meanwhile, often foster very supportive mentoring relationships, investing time and guidance to help their mentees grow, which creates a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

In South Africa, I experienced a warm and welcoming culture that made teamwork feel natural and inclusive. However, I also encountered unique challenges, like navigating sensitive issues such as xenophobia, which underscored the importance of empathy and cultural awareness in building strong, united teams.

Working with Nigerians has shown me a level of ambition and resilience that is truly inspiring. Nigerian colleagues are often quick to seize any opportunity, demonstrating a proactive spirit that drives success and innovation.

Each of these experiences has taught me the value of adaptability and cultural sensitivity in achieving shared goals. Working with diverse teams across the globe has not only broadened my perspective but has also shown me the strength that lies in embracing our differences to work toward common aspirations.

What key skills should a newly qualified accountant develop on their path to becoming a CFO?  

For a newly qualified accountant aspiring to become a CFO, mastering time management and strategic planning is essential. In a CFO role, the ability to juggle multiple priorities—each with its own deadlines and complexities—is critical. Time management not only involves meeting deadlines but also knowing how to allocate focus and energy to the most impactful tasks. Building this skill early on can make the difference between merely keeping up and driving meaningful change.

Strategic planning, meanwhile, is the foundation for leadership. A CFO isn’t just a numbers person; they’re a visionary who shapes the company’s financial direction. Developing an aptitude for long-term planning, while keeping an eye on short-term financial performance, helps new accountants transition from managing data to leading financial strategy.

Equally important are analytical skills and adaptability. As they rise, accountants must learn to interpret financial information beyond the ledger, translating data into insights that guide organizational decision-making. Cultivating adaptability ensures they can respond to the fast-changing business environment with resilience and forward-thinking solutions.

By honing these skills, aspiring CFOs can transform themselves from diligent accountants into strategic leaders, ready to navigate complexities and drive the financial success of their organizations.

How do you balance your personal and professional life? 

Balancing personal and professional life can indeed be tricky, but I’ve found that adhering to good time management practices is key. I prioritize tasks by creating a structured schedule that allocates specific time blocks for work and personal activities. This not only helps me stay organized but also ensures I’m fully present in whatever I’m doing, whether it’s a crucial project at work or a family gathering.

One of my go-to strategies is to take one task at a time. I focus on completing a task before moving on to the next, which reduces feelings of overwhelm and increases my efficiency. By embracing a “single tasking” approach, I can give each responsibility the attention it deserves, ultimately leading to higher quality work and a greater sense of accomplishment.

Additionally, I set clear boundaries between my professional and personal time. When I finish work for the day, I make a conscious effort to disconnect, allowing myself to recharge and engage in activities that bring me joy, like exercising or spending time with loved ones.

These practices not only enhance my productivity but also nurture my well-being. By maintaining this balance, I find that I am more energized and focused, ultimately benefiting both my career and personal life.

What are your interests outside of work? 

Outside of work, I carve out time every day to relax at a restaurant, where I spend about two hours reenergizing. This daily ritual has become a cherished part of my routine, allowing me to unwind and recharge before tackling my next task. I enjoy savoring good food [and seeing people too], whether it’s trying out new dishes or indulging in my favorites, and the atmosphere of the restaurant [or pub during weekends] often provides a refreshing change of scenery.

During this time, I also take the opportunity to reflect on my day, jot down thoughts, or even catch up on reading. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and productivity that keeps me centered and motivated. Connecting with friends or meeting new people at the restaurant adds a social element that I find fulfilling. This balance of culinary exploration and reflection not only recharges my energy but also sparks creativity and inspiration that I can carry into my professional life. Whether it’s discovering a new flavor or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, these two hours are my personal oasis in a busy world.

How do you contribute to the development of others in your field? 

I actively contribute to the development of others in my field through mentorship and editorial work. As an editor for several academic journals, I play a crucial role in shaping the discourse within our discipline. This position allows me to support emerging researchers by providing constructive feedback, guiding them through the publication process, and ensuring their voices are heard.

In addition to my editorial responsibilities, I am dedicated to mentoring my mentees, sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them navigate their career paths. I enjoy teaching them not only the technical skills they need but also the importance of critical thinking and ethical considerations in our field. These interactions foster a collaborative learning environment, where I encourage questions and discussions that promote deeper understanding.

Through these initiatives, I aim to empower the next generation of professionals, equipping them with the tools and confidence to succeed. Witnessing their growth and achievements is incredibly rewarding and reinforces my commitment to nurturing talent within our community. Ultimately, I believe that contributing to the development of others is essential for the advancement of our field.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be a CFO? 

For anyone aspiring to be a CFO, my number one piece of advice is simple yet powerful: watch this space and join us. The journey to becoming a CFO requires a keen awareness of the evolving business landscape and the ability to adapt to changes in financial practices and technologies.

Stay curious and continuously seek knowledge, whether through formal education, professional development, or networking with industry peers. Engaging with the latest trends in finance, technology, and regulatory environments will not only enhance your skill set but also position you as a forward-thinking leader.

Additionally, building strong relationships is crucial. Collaborate with colleagues across departments to gain insights into the broader organizational goals. This holistic understanding will help you align financial strategies with the company’s mission and vision, a key trait for any successful CFO.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills. Leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence are vital in navigating complex financial landscapes and inspiring your team. As you progress in your career, remember that the path to becoming a CFO is not just about mastering the numbers—it’s about influencing and shaping the future of your organization. Embrace the journey, stay engaged, and watch how opportunities unfold. Join the conversation and prepare to lead!

What’s your favorite quote or mantra? 

One of my favorite quotes is,

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

This mantra serves as a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, respect, and kindness in our interactions with others.

By treating people with the same consideration and care that I would wish for myself, I create a positive and collaborative environment. This mindset not only fosters strong relationships but also encourages a culture of mutual support and understanding.

In the fast-paced world of finance and leadership, it can be easy to lose sight of these values. However, reminding myself of this quote keeps me grounded and motivated to lead with integrity. Ultimately, it inspires me to contribute positively to my community, influence others positively, and strive for success that uplifts everyone around me.

Share your favorite leadership lesson. 

One of my favorite leadership lessons is the timeless truth that hard work pays off. This principle has not only been a cornerstone of my own success but has also been a common thread among many successful individuals I admire.

I’ve learned that

dedication and persistence often outweigh natural talent or luck. Embracing challenges and committing to putting in the effort—whether it’s late nights, continuous learning, or going the extra mile—ultimately leads to growth and achievement.

This lesson resonates deeply in leadership. A strong work ethic sets a positive example for my team, inspiring them to strive for excellence and tackle obstacles with resilience. It reinforces the idea that success is rarely instantaneous; rather, it’s a result of consistent effort and unwavering determination.

In essence, hard work cultivates not just individual achievement but also fosters a culture of excellence within teams and organizations. This lesson continues to motivate me and serves as a reminder that the journey toward our goals is just as important as the destination.

What’s something surprising about you that isn’t in your business bio? 

One surprising fact about me that isn’t included in my business bio is that I am currently a law student, striving to become a lawyer in just 18 months in the UK. This journey into the legal field has been both challenging and rewarding, and it fuels my passion for understanding the intricacies of law and justice. Balancing my studies with my professional responsibilities adds a unique dimension to my perspective in the business world. This pursuit not only broadens my skill set but also enhances my ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and advocate effectively for others. I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as I work toward this goal!

What’s your favorite non-business app on your phone? 

One of my favorite non-business apps on my phone is WhatsApp. I enjoy using it to stay connected with friends and family, sharing updates, photos, and, of course, those everyday laughs through memes and voice notes. It’s such a convenient way to maintain relationships, especially in our busy lives.

I also appreciate Facebook for its ability to keep me connected with a wider circle of acquaintances and communities. It’s a great platform for discovering events and sharing moments that matter. Additionally, LinkedIn has its own charm outside of strictly professional use. I enjoy using it to follow industry trends and connect with inspiring individuals in the legal and finance sectors, which often leads to engaging discussions and insights.

These apps not only help me maintain my social connections but also provide a balance to my professional life, allowing me to unwind and enjoy a sense of community beyond work.

If you could have any superpower to help you in your job, what would it be?

If I could have any superpower to help me in my job, it would definitely be a combination of mind-reading and predicting market trends. Mind-reading would allow me to understand the thoughts and motivations of colleagues and clients, enhancing communication and collaboration. Meanwhile, the ability to predict market trends would be invaluable in making informed decisions and staying ahead of the competition. Together, these superpowers would empower me to navigate complexities with ease and lead my team toward greater success!

What’s your go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays?

My go-to strategy for staying productive during long workdays is to break my work plans into smaller routines. By setting manageable goals and tackling one task at a time, I maintain focus and prevent overwhelm. This approach not only helps me track my progress but also provides a sense of accomplishment as I complete each goal. More importantly, I take short breaks between tasks to recharge my energy and clear my mind, ensuring I stay sharp and engaged throughout the day. This method keeps me motivated and allows me to effectively manage even the longest workdays.

If you could relive one day from your professional career, which day would it be and why?  

If I could relive one day from my professional career—while working at the First City Monument Bank (FCMB),—it would be the day I traveled from Nigeria to South Africa to attend the Academy of International Business Sub-Saharan annual conference hosted by the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Johannesburg, South Africa. This day was special not only because of the opportunity to immerse myself in a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives but also for the chance to connect with esteemed colleagues and industry leaders from around the globe.

The excitement of boarding the flight, the anticipation of new experiences, and the vibrant atmosphere at the conference made it unforgettable. I had the chance to engage in thought-provoking discussions, attend insightful sessions, and share ideas that resonated across cultures. The connections I formed during this event led to collaborations and friendships that continue to enrich my career.

Experiencing the vibrant South African culture while being surrounded by passionate professionals inspired me to think bigger and broaden my horizons. Reliving that day would allow me to experience the energy, camaraderie, and growth that came from being part of such an impactful event. It reminds me of the importance of continuous learning and networking in my professional journey, and the lasting impact that moments like these can have on shaping one’s career path.

If you’re a CFO Club Africa member and would like to share your journey, we invite you to be featured in our series

Click Here
Not a member yet? Join the CFO Club Africa community to connect with fellow finance leaders and access exclusive opportunities

Click Here