Banigbe will take over from Juergen Peschel, the current
CEO, who will remain involved in the transformation process as a Consultant. He
has a wealth of experience at the C-suite level and a deep understanding of the
complex African business environment, with a focus on translating business
goals and commercial needs into effective strategies for successful
implementation.
Banigbe began his professional journey in the
telecommunications sector at Celtel, which is now known as Airtel Nigeria,
where he served as the Director of Operations. Prior to this role, he made
significant contributions at Ericsson in various positions within the
Sub-Saharan Africa Market Unit, ultimately becoming the Network Support Group
Manager for Access and Transport Networks. He also held the position of Chief
Operations Officer at Millicom Ghana, where he was responsible for developing
the operational strategy for the company in Ghana. His tenure within the
Millicom Group included key roles such as Interim CEO, as well as earlier
responsibilities as Chief Technical Officer for Millicom Ghana and Millicom
International Cellular Tanzania.
Banigbe has gained extensive international experience across
various countries, including the United States and multiple African nations.
Previously, he held the position of Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Silver
Rock Technology Services Ghana, a strategic advisory firm specializing in the
Telecom, Media, and Technology sectors. Additionally, he served as a
Non-Executive Director at Amplitude Telecoms, a tower infrastructure provider
in Nigeria.
In his role as an Advisory Board member for Telecel Group,
Banigbe played a crucial part in guiding the group's successful acquisition of
Vodafone Ghana. He continues to enhance his advisory portfolio by providing
insights to Nsano Group, a prominent Fintech platform operating in numerous
African countries, and previously shared his expertise with the Kirusa group in
New Jersey, USA, offering valuable guidance on product development and market
entry strategies.
The Board of EMTS (9mobile) expressed their enthusiasm for
the potential opportunities and the beneficial influence that Obafemi will
bring to the future of 9mobile. His vision, dedication, and extensive
experience from various backgrounds will strengthen our commitment to
delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining network quality.
Obafemi will collaborate with the Board of Directors and all stakeholders to
develop realistic and sustainable long-term business strategies, by
implementing solutions to meet the changing demands of the Nigerian
telecommunications industry.
“The Nigerian telecommunications sector is known for its
intense competition, yet it offers various opportunities for stakeholders. I am
thrilled to become a part of the 9mobile team and am eager to utilize my
expertise and distinctive value propositions to guide the company through its
upcoming phase. Our aim is to enhance the current groundwork of the company and
generate value that will revolutionize the Nigerian telecom industry. Banigbe
mentioned.”
Banigbe earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and
Computer Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria.
He further developed his skills by completing the Ericsson Management
Development Program, the Advanced Management Program at the London Business
School, and obtaining an MBA from Manchester Business School, U.K. Prior to
joining 9mobile, he held the position of Senior Partner: Strategy and
Technology at Africa Context Advisory partners.