Trials and Triumphs of Cosmas and Charity Maduka written by the duo of Ambassador Udo and Mrs Eno Williams is a concise but engaging book on the lives and achievements of the business mogul, Dr. Cosmas Maduka and his wife, Mrs Charity Maduka. Compact and neatly packaged, the book is readable, flowing seamlessly like an unhindered stream, which is nonetheless embellished with apt metaphors and creative phrases that confer timeless beauty.

The style of writing is simple and straightforward and the language, in the main poetic and elevated. The analogies and references are eclectic, almost approximating the versatile and throbbing life of the main character, Cosmas. As a man of many parts, Dr. Cosmas Maduka is a successful businessman, Christian leader, husband and family man, marketing expert, sports man and outstanding philanthropist.

Each of these enchanting facets of the noted Wealth Creator is spread and given varied and considerable mention in the book. Nobody, after perusing the book and having an encounter, as it were, with the quintessential Cosmas and his lovely wife can come out without being positively affected by the inimitable sunshine wafting up from the couple’s lives.

Indeed, Trials and Triumphs is a pot-pourri of sorts: From various vantage points, it can be seen as a motivational treatise, book on general leadership principles, strategic book on Christian ethics and values re-orientation, etc. But overall, it is a splendid testimonial of the inspiring life of a Christian brother, Cosmas, who though of a humble background, rose by his bootstraps and faith in the Almighty God to overcome the setbacks of early beginning and became a star in the Nigerian business firmament.

To read this exceptional book is to be inadvertently ushered into the ramified and intriguingly complex world of Dr. Maduka and wife. Those who have always wondered about the source of his business success, his unflagging strength and undimmed passion only have to obtain a copy of the book and the rich nuggets of wisdom would be unveiled to them. As the patient reader approaches the end of the book, he/she can exclaim in relief, aha... no wonder brother Cosmas was able to make it big in life!

Is it therefore any wonder why Coscharis Group would remain for a long time a unique brand and money-spinner? Dr. Maduka is, however, lucky that this book of uncommon revelations about his winning strategies is being published at a period when his business successes have been, so to speak, irrevocably established. Otherwise, with the copious exposure in the book of his Magic wand that has given him a competitive edge in the market, he would by now be up against fiercer competitors, who would have been better armed with strategic information gleaned from his biography.

However, I believe that the Trials and Triumphs is only a glimmer of light that foreshadows the groundswell of literary works that may emerge on the intimidating and inspiring profile of Dr. Cosmas Maduka. In subsequent editions of this book or better still, in other books that may be written on Dr. Maduka, it is hoped that the various scintillating parts of his life will be distinctly explored. It is suggested that Dr. Maduka may do well to start working on his memoir or autobiography, which may be expected to be ready say, in the next 3-4 years. Expectedly, his own account of his stewardship will be fuller and more riveting.

The authors deserve commendation for embarking on the voyage of digging into the varied layers of Cosmas’ life with his wife. Their commitment and passion, including love for the couple that is X-rayed here are manifest. Without doubt, the duo has succeeded in this interesting self-imposed assignment.
•Dr. John Otu, former Editorial Board member of The Guardian and former Information and Orientation commissioner, Ebonyi State, is now Special Assistant to Dr Sam Egwu, Education Minister.