Flutterwave Founder and CEO, Olugbenga Agboola, has been appointed to the advisory board of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art. This milestone underscores both Agboola’s leadership in the tech industry and Flutterwave’s ongoing commitment to celebrating African excellence across various domains.
The National Museum of African Art, the only U.S. institution dedicated solely to African art, marked its 60th anniversary by welcoming Agboola alongside six other distinguished leaders from academia, healthcare, finance, and more. Their expertise is set to help shape the museum’s future and strengthen its mission of promoting Africa’s rich artistic heritage.
“It is a privilege to work with each of these new board members,” said John K. Lapiana, director of the museum. “Our museum will benefit immeasurably from their perspectives and insight, especially now during our 60th anniversary year.”
As a prominent technology leader, Agboola brings valuable insight to the museum, bridging Africa’s rich cultural heritage with its digital transformation.
Reacting to the appointment, Agboola expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is an honor to support the National Museum of African Art in its mission to bring Africa’s vibrant heritage to a global audience.” He emphasized that this opportunity aligns with Flutterwave’s vision of showcasing Africa’s talent and innovation on the global stage.
The museum boasts a collection of over 13,000 artworks spanning more than 1,000 years of African history. Agboola’s role on the board will include helping the institution highlight Africa’s artistic achievements to a global audience, further cementing the connection between Africa’s cultural past and its tech-driven future.
Agboola’s influence extends beyond his work at Flutterwave. He is a founding member of the Milken Institute’s Africa Leaders Business Council and serves on the boards of the U.S.-Africa Business Center at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Corporate Council on Africa.
Flutterwave, Africa’s leading payments technology company, has earned global recognition for its innovations. In 2024, it was named Fast Company’s Most Innovative Company for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With a reputation for enabling ecosystems and fostering partnerships, Flutterwave remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that celebrate African achievements across technology, art, and beyond.
Agboola’s appointment not only highlights his individual contributions but also reflects the growing acknowledgment of Africa’s role in shaping global conversations around art, culture, and innovation.
18
