Business mogul Obi Cubana has shed light on what he believes is one of the biggest barriers to African entrepreneurs achieving global success — the obsession with sole ownership and the lack of genuine collaboration.
Speaking on the difference between African and Western business mindsets, Cubana observed that while many African entrepreneurs prefer to run their businesses alone, foreign counterparts understand and embrace the power of partnerships and shared ownership.
He argued that this mindset limits innovation and scalability, as individuals often prioritise control over collective growth.
Obi Cubana’s remarks have since sparked wide discussions online. While many praised his insight, others insisted that the issue runs deeper than greed.
Some social media users pointed out that low trust levels, poor accountability, and dishonesty within partnerships have made collaboration risky.
One commenter wrote, “We are a low-trust society. Many investors have lost money because business partners were neither transparent nor accountable.”
Others emphasised that true collaboration thrives only when there are systems and structures to protect all parties involved.
As another commenter noted, “The oyibo we admire don’t mix emotions with business. They draft contracts, hold leaders accountable, and remove anyone who fails to deliver, no matter their stake.”
Obi Cubana’s comments have reignited conversations about business ethics, trust, and partnership culture in Africa — and whether entrepreneurs are ready to move from ownership-driven ambition to collaborative progress.
