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Tag: Airtel Nigeria

  • Airtel Africa’s Segun Ogunsanya and Rain Oil’s Godrey Ogbechie Lay Bare Failure, Faith and Grit at Imperfectly Awesome 4.0

    Airtel Africa’s Segun Ogunsanya and Rain Oil’s Godrey Ogbechie Lay Bare Failure, Faith and Grit at Imperfectly Awesome 4.0

    It was 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3rd and the Muson Centre wasn’t hosting a conference. It was hosting a confession. Imperfectly Awesome Conversations 4.0. Gathered were CEOs, bankers, students and dreamers under one dare: be enough.

    Keynote speaker, Dr Segun Ogunsanya, former Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria and Africa and Chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, opened by protesting “gender bias” and then ripped up the playbook on strength.

    “None of us arrived here perfectly put together,” he told the hall. “We arrived looking renewed, reshaped. Some look bruised. There’s imperfection everywhere. Whether you are rich, whether you are poor, whether you are a student.”

    Then came the line that stopped the room: ‘Life is full of things. It fluctuates. So please start practising how to cry… ”

    For Ogunsanya, resilience isn’t a comeback story. “It’s actually bouncing forward, not back. People say you bounce back. When you are resilient, you bounce forward… Resilience doesn’t shout. It whispers, try again, try again.”

    He said the strength to try again “may come from your faith, if you are very spiritual, whether it’s from God, Jesus or Allah. But most importantly, resilience doesn’t mean you don’t struggle. It means you choose not to stop. Because when you stop, you drown. The dancing stops.”

    He dragged the audience to Barcelona, Spain, for a pitch that almost didn’t happen. “I was expected to deliver clarity, structure… The presentation date and venue were set for Spain, in Barcelona. I put everything in my excuse. I called the airline. They said they couldn’t let me fly… The momentum slowed. But the pressure remained very high.” In that moment, he said, “Resilience… was not pushing at all. It was the need to stay steady… It meant reframing setbacks, data, not defeat… Temporary disruption doesn’t equal permanent failure.”

    On tenacity, he got personal. “I became CEO for one of the 14 countries in Africa. After nine years… I was the only black CEO of a Fortune 100 company. But I nearly quit. I nearly did. But I stayed.”

    He recalled launching 4G when “some say 4G is not important in Africa. Customers are not ready for it. Devices do not support 4G. Stakeholders also changed. Priorities changed… Tenacity is what happens when you refine your approach rather than abandon it… You can’t suffer invisibly. You cannot stop.”

    Authenticity, he said, is non-negotiable. “To succeed in life, you must be an authentic person. You must be true to yourself. You don’t want to lie to yourself… Some people are just for everyone. If you can be true to yourself, God has something for everyone.”

    During Q&A, he was asked whether to choose the CEO track or entrepreneurship, and he refused the binary: “Both parts can make you very prosperous… There are many successful CEOs… There are also many unsuccessful entrepreneurs. You only serve the successful ones… It depends on how ambitious you are and how you define success. Success is not just about the dollar or the naira… Be clear of how you measure success and be clear as to what you are.”

    When pressed on what would have happened if he’d missed that Spain pitch, he delivered a gut-punch: “The true test of a leader is how many other leaders have you groomed. If you’re the only lodestar, you’re a very selfish leader.”Group Executive Director of Rain Oil Limited,

    Mrs Godrey Ogbechie stepped up with no script and no pretence. “Because the doctors are all over the place, the event anchor decided to add doctor to my name to elevate my profile this evening. But I am not,” she said, drawing laughter.

    “I have been thinking of doing a doctorate for the last seven years and have not even filled out an application form yet… And I am already 60 years old.”

    Why will she still do it? “My grandmother, who is one of my biggest inspirations, went back to school when she was over 70 years old… She wanted to read the Bible for herself.”

    Ogbechie told the room Tola had warned her: “She didn’t want to see my phone. She didn’t want to see my iPad. She didn’t want to see a script. She said I should just come and talk.” So she did – about hating her “masculine” voice, about being raised “like a boy” because “my father had five girls in quick succession. No boy… He kept telling people, oh, if you don’t have a male dog, you take a female dog to go hunting.”

    She spoke of responsibility after her father died at 72, leaving a last son. “Some of that responsibility is on my other siblings and me.”

    Her indictment of today’s work ethic was blunt. “That principle of hard work is what is lacking in these generations today… It doesn’t matter how much AI and things become easy. We must not forget the principles of hard work and consistently showing up… Please, kill yourself. Something must die… You must kill laziness, procrastination… Until a corn of wheat falls to the ground, it abided alone.” She ended with her own insecurities: “I used to refuse speaking engagements because I felt I didn’t have a pleasant-sounding voice… I used to think that my grammar is not perfect… As long as you’re making sense… those are some of the things I have started ruling myself out of.”

    Convener Dr. Tola Bamigbaiye framed the day’s thesis backstage. “We’ve been campaigning that we’re enough. In fact, being enough is the new currency we need to start spending in today’s world, especially when people demand perfection from us,” she said. “

    It’s okay to fall. It’s okay to fail… But failing is not the issue. It’s the ability to get up and learn from it… We expect that when they take learnings away from here, they can apply them to their immediate environment… The charge to everyone who attends today is to please take that learning, be a source of inspiration to someone else.”

    On resilience in 2026, she was clear: “We need to keep going… When we start off a journey, we never know where it’s going to stop. But when you keep going, you know that the end is in sight someday.” The hardest part of embracing flaws? “When people want to take a shortcut… But we always want to let people realise that the necessity pays.”

  • Flexmobile Set For Launch in Nigeria

    Flexmobile Set For Launch in Nigeria

    Flexmobile, the much-anticipated telecom brand from Hazon Technologies, is on the cusp of its commercial debut, with final regulatory approval now the last step before market entry. Following the successful conclusion of commercial agreements with its MVNE, IMBIL, and Airtel Nigeria, the stage is set for a launch that is already generating industry-wide expectations.

    At a recent media briefing, Dr. Victor ’Gbenga Afolabi, Group CEO of Hazon Technologies, reflected on the journey leading up to this moment defined by strategic patience, deliberate execution, and an unwavering vision.

    “What lies ahead is more than a launch—it is the beginning of a new way to experience telecoms in Nigeria,” he noted. “After years of building the right partnerships and infrastructure, we are approaching a defining milestone. Flexmobile is designed to challenge conventions and introduce a smarter, more flexible telecom experience for Nigerians.”

    Set to introduce a distinctive 081 number series, Flexmobile’s commercial rollout is targeted for June 1, 2026, subject to final consumer tariff approval by the Nigerian Communications Commission. Early signals suggest a product ecosystem engineered around flexibility, data-centricity, and user control—an approach aligned with the evolving expectations of Nigeria’s digitally connected population.

    While full details of its offering will be unveiled at launch, Flexmobile is expected to introduce a suite of value-added services designed to go beyond traditional connectivity, positioning the brand at the intersection of telecoms, lifestyle, and digital enablement.

    Backed by strong institutional partnerships and a robust MVNE framework, Flexmobile enters the market not just as another operator, but as a platform with the potential to reshape how telecom services are consumed and experienced.

    As anticipation builds, one thing is increasingly clear: Flexmobile is not simply preparing to launch—it is preparing to shift the conversation.

  • Feature: Are Regulators Signalling a New Era of Accountability?

    Feature: Are Regulators Signalling a New Era of Accountability?

    By Elvis Eromosele

    For years, Nigerian consumers have complained, sometimes loudly, sometimes helplessly, about poor services. Airlines, telecom operators and banks were always the biggest culprits. In fact, flight delays became routine, dropped calls almost normal, and unexplained bank charges a recurring irritation. What often followed were apologies, excuses and the almost obligatory regulatory silence.

    It now appears that that era may finally be ending.

    Recent moves by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), alongside a growing pattern of firm enforcement by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), suggest that regulators are beginning to assert their authority more forcefully. The message is becoming clearer: protect consumers, or pay the price.

    The NCAA’s recent warning to domestic airlines over chronic flight delays marks one of its strongest public stances in recent years. In a sector long shielded by sympathy for “operational challenges,” the regulator has now signalled that patience is wearing thin.

    According to NCAA data, between September and October 2024 alone, domestic airlines recorded 5,225 delays and 901 cancellations out of 10,804 flights. This means that nearly half of all flights were delayed. While weather and technical issues are unavoidable realities of aviation, the NCAA argues that persistent inefficiency, poor planning and weak communication are not.

    What appears to have triggered the tougher tone is not just the delays themselves, but how passengers are treated when things go wrong. Complaints about lack of information, poor handling at terminals and disregard for First Needs Compensation have become increasingly common.

    By referencing JetBlue’s $2 million fine in the United States for chronic delays, the NCAA is clearly signalling its intent to align Nigeria’s aviation regulation with global best practices. Support for airlines, the regulator insists, must now be matched by accountability and service improvement.

    The NCC’s warning to telecom operators follows a similar pattern: longstanding consumer frustration, followed by a regulator armed with data and renewed resolve.

    Telecom subscribers have endured dropped calls, slow internet speeds and unstable connections, even as tariffs increase and digital dependence deepens. The NCC’s response has been to partner with Ookla to produce a transparent, data-backed assessment of network performance across operators.

    The results were revealing. MTN emerged as the strongest performer nationally, while others showed notable weaknesses, Globacom with high latency and jitter, Airtel grappling with transition challenges, and 9mobile delivering inconsistent service across regions.

    More important than the rankings, however, is the regulatory shift they represent. By grounding enforcement in independent performance data, the NCC is moving away from abstract warnings to evidence-based regulation.

    Underperforming operators can no longer hide behind generic claims or marketing slogans.

    The commission’s message is blunt: improve network quality, especially latency and stability, or face sanctions.

    In a digital economy where banking, commerce, education and healthcare increasingly rely on connectivity, poor service is no longer a minor inconvenience; it is a systemic risk.

    Unlike the NCAA and NCC, the Central Bank of Nigeria has already shown what tough regulation looks like in practice.

    Over the past few years, the CBN has sanctioned several banks and financial institutions for regulatory breaches ranging from Know-Your-Customer (KYC) failures and anti-money laundering lapses to poor consumer protection practices. In some cases, banks have been fined billions of naira, publicly named, or restricted from certain operations.

    The apex bank has also pushed aggressively on issues such as illegal charges, customer complaint resolution timelines, and data protection. The introduction of frameworks like the Consumer Protection Regulation (CPR) and the Global Standing Instruction (GSI) reflects a broader philosophy: financial institutions must serve customers responsibly or face consequences.

    Taken together, the actions of the NCAA, NCC and CBN point to a potential turning point in Nigeria’s regulatory culture. For too long, regulators were perceived as either underpowered or overly sympathetic to operators, often citing harsh operating environments as justification for weak enforcement.

    That narrative is changing.

    The common thread across these sectors is the growing recognition that consumer protection is not optional. Airlines, telcos and banks operate in challenging environments, but they also provide essential services. When failures become systemic rather than exceptional, regulation must intervene decisively.

    There is also a political dimension. Public frustration with poor service delivery is rising, and regulators are under pressure to demonstrate relevance. By taking tougher stances, agencies signal not only professionalism but alignment with broader governance expectations.

    For operators, the implications are clear. Compliance can no longer be treated as a box-ticking exercise. Investments in infrastructure, customer service, communication systems and operational planning are no longer optional; they are survival strategies.

    For consumers, the shift offers cautious optimism. Stronger regulation does not automatically translate to better service, but it creates the conditions for improvement. When penalties are real and enforcement credible, behaviour changes.

    The real test, however, lies ahead. Warnings must be followed by action. Sanctions must be consistent, transparent and fair. Regulators must resist pressure, lobbying and regulatory capture.

    Yes, after years of looking the other way, Nigeria’s regulators appear to be waking up. The question now is whether they will stay awake.

    Eromosele, a corporate communications expert and sustainability advocate, wrote via: elviseroms@gmail.com

  • Airtel Africa Foundation Launches 100 Tech Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates

    Airtel Africa Foundation Launches 100 Tech Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates

    Following the recent announcement by its Chairman, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, at a World Press Conference held in Lagos recently, the Airtel Africa Foundation, through Airtel Nigeria, has kicked off its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship Programme to benefit 100 Nigerian undergraduates.

    This initiative will provide each recipient with a grant covering tuition, accommodation, study materials, and a stipend from the first year of study through the final year. This financial aid removes economic barriers, empowering students to dedicate their focus to academic and technical achievement in technology.

    Eligible courses of study include Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines.

    Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Ogunsanya affirmed that the scholarships represent the Foundation’s continued commitment to breaking down barriers for young Africans.

    “At Airtel Africa Foundation, our vision has always been to create opportunities where talent meets ambition. With this scholarship, we are investing in Nigeria’s future tech leaders, giving them the resources and confidence to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” he stated.

    Beneficiaries are selected from 100-level students enrolled in approved programmes in participating public universities across the country. These institutions include the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), and Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED).

    Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, noted: “The prioritization of education as a pillar of our social investments becomes much stronger with these 100 new scholarships. They build on such other initiatives as our partnership with UNICEF on the Reimagine Education Programme, our Adopt-A-School project, and our 1 billion naira investment in the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) effort of the Federal Government. Ultimately, for us as an organisation, the best way to equip the future is to arm it with cutting-edge education.”

    The undergraduate scholarship is a direct component of the Foundation’s four strategic pillars of Financial Inclusion, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion (FEED).

  • Airtel Backs Global Hepatitis Fight with Health Education and Free Employee Vaccination

    Airtel Backs Global Hepatitis Fight with Health Education and Free Employee Vaccination

    As the world commemorates World Hepatitis Day, Airtel Nigeria is taking bold steps to combat the global health challenge by equipping its employees with knowledge and access. Reinforcing its ongoing commitment to employee wellness and public health advocacy, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider hosted a companywide Health Talk and announced a free hepatitis vaccination rollout across its offices across the country.

    This year’s health and wellness theme at Airtel, “Stay Aware, Get Tested, Vaccinated & Seek Treatment,” aligns with global efforts to eliminate hepatitis and underscores the company’s belief that well-informed, healthy employees are the foundation of a thriving organisation.

    In collaboration with its healthcare partner, Leadway Health, Airtel Nigeria brought together staff from across the country for an educational session titled: “Healthy Habits, Healthy Liver: Ending Hepatitis Starts with You!” Led by esteemed medical consultant Dr. Obioma Anomneze-Chima, the session offered critical insights into the causes, symptoms, and prevention of hepatitis, along with practical lifestyle habits to safeguard liver health.

    In his remarks at the programme, Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, highlighted the company’s holistic wellbeing philosophy.

    He said, “Our people are the heart of our organisation, and when they are healthy, they bring their best selves to work. We’re not just investing in employee performance; we’re investing in their complete wellbeing. From mental wellness to preventive healthcare, our programmes are designed to offer real, meaningful support.”

    Speaking during the session, Dr. Anomneze-Chima emphasised the importance of proactive prevention and early testing,“Hepatitis doesn’t always announce itself; it creeps in quietly and can cause lifelong complications. Conversations like this help us catch it before it catches us. I applaud Airtel for giving its employees not just facts, but tools and access to protect their health.”

    Director, Human Resources and Administration, Airtel Nigeria, Adebimpe Ayo-Elias, noted that events such as the Hepatitis education and vaccination activity are a firm part of the company’s corporate mission. “This hepatitis campaign is a reminder that corporate responsibility goes beyond business metrics; it’s about actively participating in global health conversations and making a difference where it counts: among our people,” she added.

    To sustain the impact of the educational talk, Airtel Nigeria is launching a free hepatitis vaccination programme across its premises, allowing employees nationwide to get vaccinated on-site with ease. This initiative reflects the company’s human-first approach to workforce wellness—prioritising both immediate care and long-term health security.

    With this initiative, Airtel Nigeria once again demonstrates its leadership in advancing workplace wellness and health advocacy in the corporate sector. From supporting mental health through its Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to promoting physical wellbeing with preventive screenings and vaccinations, Airtel is setting the standard for what it means to truly care for its workforce.

  • Makinde to Declare 52nd AAAN AGM/Congress Open as Ibadan Hosts Advertising Elite

    Makinde to Declare 52nd AAAN AGM/Congress Open as Ibadan Hosts Advertising Elite

    The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) will convene its flagship 52nd Annual General Meeting and Congress from July 17–19 at JAGZ Hotel, Ibadan. This year’s theme, “Charting Bold Paths Forward,” reflects the industry’s shared commitment to embracing innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership in a rapidly changing environment.

    The three-day gathering will feature a compelling blend of cultural heritage, strategic dialogue, and professional celebration. The first day will see delegates pay a courtesy visit to Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rasheed Ladoja, a tradition that echoes AAAN’s longstanding respect for host communities and cultural roots.

    The official conference will begin on July 18 and will be declared open by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State. He is expected to be joined by dignitaries, including the  Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, and the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, alongside the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, setting the tone for high-level discourse and coordination.

    A centrepiece of the day will be the keynote address from Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President & Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Interswitch Group, followed by a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Tayo Oyedeji, Group CEO of Insight Publicis Group Nigeria.

    Confirmed panel speakers include Josiah Akinola of Nigerian Breweries PLC; Bolanle Osotule of Airtel Nigeria; George Onukwu of TBWA\Concept; Oluwatobi Williams of 7even Interactive; and Adedamola Richard‑Salvador of Digisplash Limited

    AAAN President, Mr. Lanre Adisa, noted that this year’s theme is indicative of the AAAN’s readiness to be courageous in embracing innovation and vision.

    “This is not the time to tiptoe around the future. Boldness is not a buzzword but the only language the future understands. In a landscape defined by constant change, boldness is not a gamble but a strategic imperative. Those who will lead tomorrow are those willing to question today,” said Adisa.

    The final day of the event shifts focus to governance and celebration and will have two segments: Business Session and Gala/Award Night. The highlights of the former include leadership updates and the induction of new members. The latter will see deserving advertising professionals recognized and rewarded while dressed in aso oke regalia.

    Founded in 1973, AAAN is Nigeria’s oldest and most influential collective of advertising agencies. Its annual AGM is a pivotal industry tradition, one that consolidates strategic progress, regulatory alignment, cross-sector collaboration, and storytelling that positions the Nigerian advertising industry on a bold, credible future trajectory.

  • Airtel Partners with Google to Elevate Home Entertainment

    Airtel Partners with Google to Elevate Home Entertainment

    …Integrates YouTube into Airtel Smart Router

    Leading telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria, has announced an innovative partnership with Google to transform home entertainment across Nigeria.

    The partnership, which was unveiled at an agreement signing ceremony at the telecom giant’s Lagos headquarters, integrates YouTube, the world’s largest video platform, into the ground-breaking Airtel Smart Router to deliver seamless internet connection and entertainment experiences for subscribers across the country.

    As part of this innovative update, the Airtel Smart Router further fulfils its promise as a 2-in-1 device, acting as an internet router while also converting analogue television sets into smart TVs to enable YouTube viewing on any type of TV.

    Now with a YouTube app, a dedicated button on the remote control, and an operating system optimised for a seamless YouTube experience, the Smart Router is equipped to bring world-class quality entertainment closer to more Nigerians.

    Speaking on the new partnership, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Oshinlaja, highlighted its significance towards transforming digital entertainment in Nigerian homes.

    “At Airtel, our goal to bridge the digital gap includes the provision of affordable entertainment content. Through this partnership with Google, we continue to revolutionise the entertainment space as the Airtel Smart Router offers a complete experience, delivering internet services and easy access to world-class entertainment through YouTube,” he said.

    Also providing more insight about the collaboration, Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Femi Adeniran, stated, “The integration of YouTube on the Airtel Smart Router offers an unmatched simplification of the customer experience, transforming how our customers consume digital content at home. This partnership reflects our commitment to creating affordable and innovative solutions that enhance the digital lifestyle of our customers.”

    The ground-breaking Airtel Smart Router, which retails for N25,000 and arrives with unlimited data for 30 days, simplifies the streaming of movies, football matches, cartoons, music, and other forms of audio-visual entertainment for the entire family.

    Olumide Balogun, West Africa Director, Google, added: “YouTube has always been about connecting people with the content they love, whether it’s exploring new hobbies, staying informed, or discovering creative inspiration. With this partnership, we’re making it easier for more Nigerians to access their favorite videos right from their TVs, enabling even more homes to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and entertainment that YouTube offers. It’s an exciting step toward our mission of creating a digitally inclusive Africa.”

    Reiterating Balogun’s assertion, Director, EMEA Product Partnerships, YouTube, Mahesh Bhalerao said, “YouTube is the stage where culture comes to life and where everyone, from creators to viewers, can find their voice and connect with what matters most to them. This collaboration with Airtel underscores our commitment to bringing high-quality, on-demand content to more homes, while empowering Nigerian audiences to explore, learn, and enjoy the diversity of experiences YouTube offers.”

    Airtel is committed to redefining the data access for Nigerian households via affordable and portable connection devices such as routers and MiFis.

  • Airtel Directors Win Three Prestigious Honours at CIO Awards

    Airtel Directors Win Three Prestigious Honours at CIO Awards

    Airtel Nigeria’s leadership team has demonstrated outstanding excellence in innovation and technology as two of its directors were honoured with three prestigious awards at the 5th edition of the CIO & C-Suite Awards, held on Saturday, 30th November 2024, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The annual awards, organized by CIO Club Africa, celebrates outstanding achievements in technology and innovation leadership across 11 African nations, recognizing individuals and organizations shaping the future of the tech industry.

    During the event, Harmanpreet Dhillon, Chief Technology Officer, Airtel Nigeria was recognised as Overall Tech Champion of the Year and also received the Gold Award as an Innovative Leader in the Telecommunications Sector. Also, the Director of Information and Technology, Airtel Nigeria, Kemi Ariyo, was recognized with the Silver Award as an Innovative  Leader in the same category, highlighting her significant contributions to the sector.

    While expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Mr. Harmanpreet Dhillon dedicating the awards to the efforts of the Airtel team.

    “At Airtel, we are fully committed to continuous innovation and excellence and I must say this is a reflection of the relentless efforts and dedication of the entire Airtel Nigeria team. These awards inspire us to continue breaking barriers and achieving excellence through innovative technology,” he said.

    The event brought together technology leaders, including Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), Chief Information Officers (CIOs), tech visionaries, security experts, and innovation pioneers who share a united goal of shaping the future of technology and driving transformative progress across industries.

    In her remarks at the event, Kemi Ariyo also emphasised the importance of professional honours in encouraging innovation across the industry, stating, “Awards like these are a motivation to keep contributing meaningfully to the industry and to push the boundaries of what is possible in technology and telecommunications.”

    These achievements reflect the brand’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and setting new benchmarks in the telecommunications industry.

  • Airtel Appoints Dinesh Balsingh as Nigeria CEO

    Airtel Appoints Dinesh Balsingh as Nigeria CEO

    Airtel Africa, a leading telecommunications and mobile money services provider with presence in 14 countries across the continent,has announced the appointment of Dinesh Balsingh as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, effective 1st November 2024.  By this appointment, Balsingh also becomes a member of the Executive Council for the Airtel Africa Group.

    He takes over from Carl Cruz, who returned to his home country, The Philippines, at the end of October.

    Balsingh has extensive experience across the telecommunications industry and returns to Nigeria following his appointment as Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Tanzania in 2022. Prior to his move to Tanzania, he served as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Airtel Nigeria and therefore brings with him considerable experience of the Nigerian telecommunications market.

    Balsingh’s career in the telecommunications industry spans over 24 years. He began his career in 2000 with Hutchison Essar, then moved to Airtel India as a Marketing Director in 2006 and then Tata Docomo in 2011. Balsingh joined Airtel Nigeria as Marketing Director in 2013 and took over as CCO in 2018.

    During his tenure in Airtel Tanzania, Balsingh led the business to achieve record growth through intelligent pricing, product enhancements and disciplined execution of projects, resulting in strong Revenue Market Share (RMS) gains in the highly competitive market.

    Speaking on the leadership changes, Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar said, “Mr. Balsingh’s deep telecommunications experience and strong operational execution, combined with his knowledge of the Nigerian market, will be instrumental in further supporting our corporate purpose of transforming lives across Nigeria.”

    Balsingh holds a Master of Business Administration from Thiagarajar School of Management.

  • Airtel Nigeria Hosts UNICEF GenU 9JA Steering Committee Meeting, Reinforces Commitment to Youth Empowerment

    Airtel Nigeria Hosts UNICEF GenU 9JA Steering Committee Meeting, Reinforces Commitment to Youth Empowerment

    Airtel Nigeria hosted the 2024 UNICEF Generation Unlimited (GenU) Steering Committee meeting at the Airtel Nigeria headquarters in Banana Island, Lagos, on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

    The breakfast meeting served as a collaborative forum, bringing together stakeholders from government, the private sector, and civil society to review GenU 9JA’s progress in providing Nigerian youth with digital learning, upskilling, and pathways to meaningful employment.

    In his opening remarks, Chief Executive Officer at Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz expressed Airtel’s dedication to supporting the youth. “It is a privilege for Airtel to host this significant meeting and reaffirm our commitment to an initiative that holds the power to transform the lives of millions of young Nigerians. By equipping our youth with essential skills and resources, we not only support their individual success but also contribute to Nigeria’s social and economic growth,” he said.

    Mr. Cruz further highlighted Airtel’s leadership in providing connectivity for digital learning, noting, “With the support of our UNICEF partners, we have connected 1,260 schools across Nigeria to digital learning, enabling 600 children to access educational platforms like the Nigeria Learning Passport and Yoma Africa. This connectivity is not just about internet access; it is about creating an equal playing field for young people, giving them access to quality education and skills essential for their future.”

    The event saw participation from a host of other GenU 9JA partners, including IHS Towers, ATC, Unilever, Jobberman, Microsoft, Tony Elumelu Foundation, the Federal Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, GIZ, World Bank, ILO, UNDP, UNFPA, the EU Delegation, and the Government of the Netherlands.

    While delivering a report on GenU 9JA digital learning, Director of Corporate Communications and CSR at Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran, reiterated Airtel’s dedication to driving digital inclusion and youth empowerment in support of Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

    “For us at Airtel, we are actively involved in connecting schools and advancing digital learning for young Nigerians. Looking back at the debut of our partnership with UNICEF in 2023, we have exceeded our initial expectations in school connectivity, which highlighted the significant gaps in Nigeria’s educational system. This year, we have made even greater strides and our involvement in initiatives like the Nigeria Learning Passport reflects our commitment to bridging this gap by expanding digital access, fostering learning, and building essential skills nationwide to support young Nigerians,” he said.

     “Also, it would interest everyone to know that Airtel Nigeria’s new Home Broadband thematic campaign, ‘Live Limitless’, resonates strongly with the GenU 9JA ‘We No Get Limit’ motto, which underscores our dedication to empowering young Nigerians to unlock their full potential without barriers. This commitment drives us to continue creating and promoting opportunities that equip the youth for a brighter future” he added. The GenU Steering Committee meeting served as a valuable platform for Airtel and other partners to deepen their commitment to the GenU 9JA mission. By fostering collaboration and driving impactful initiatives, Airtel demonstrates its corporate social responsibility by actively contributing to programs that uplift Nigerian youth and promote sustainable development across the nation.

  • Adesuwa Ifedi, Korty EO, Ziad Maalouf, Among Others Set to Take the Stage at TEDxPAU 2024.

    Adesuwa Ifedi, Korty EO, Ziad Maalouf, Among Others Set to Take the Stage at TEDxPAU 2024.

    Pan-Atlantic University is thrilled to announce the second edition of TEDxPAU, themed ‘Shaping the Future’ which will take place on the 16th of November at Africa’s premier business school—Lagos

    Business School. After the success of its previous edition, which featured notable speakers such as the MD/CEO of Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz; the Group CEO of RED Media, Ayodeji Rasaq, and the Dean of the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, the planning committee returns with an even stronger commitment to shape the future through present action.

    According to the event organiser, Bella Victor said, “The theme ‘Shaping the Future’ was inspired by the incredible power we hold as individuals and organisations to create lasting change. TEDxPAU 2024 is a platform where visionaries and leaders will converge to share ideas that can shape not just tomorrow, but the generations to come. We believe the future is a canvas, and this event will ignite the creativity, innovation, and drive needed to paint it.”

    This year’s edition boasts a stellar lineup of influential speakers, including:

    • Adesuwa Ifedi, Senior Vice President, Heifer International
    • Korty EO, Filmmaker & YouTuber
    • Ziad Maalouf, CEO/MD, Seven-Up Bottling Company Nigeria
    • Dr. Peter Bamkole, PhD, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin), Pan-Atlantic University
    • Ibukun Awosika, First Female Chairperson, First Bank of Nigeria
    • Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, FCIArb, Founding Partner, Kenna Partners
    • Temitope Runsewe, CEO, Dutum Group
    • Michael Oluwagbemi, PE, PMP, MBA, CEO, Presidential CNG Initiative

    The event is expected to play a crucial role in shaping conversations about the future of Nigeria and Africa as a whole. With industry experts spanning fields such as entertainment, oil & gas, banking, agriculture, law, construction, and more, TEDxPAU 2024 will provide valuable insights into the most pressing challenges of our time, thereby paving the way for a brighter Africa.

    TEDxPAU 2024 is looking to house entrepreneurs, students, creatives, and innovators with a passion for shaping the future, one conversation at a time. The event offers an opportunity to network and build relationships with like-minded individuals. To be part of this transformative experience, click here to purchase a ticket. For more information, visit www.tedxpau.com.

  • Airtel Employees Commit to Sustainable Planet with Beach Clean-up Exercise

    Airtel Employees Commit to Sustainable Planet with Beach Clean-up Exercise

    Airtel employees have demonstrated commitment to a sustainable environment, through its beach clean-up exercise held at Baadun Beach, Ajah on Monday, 23rd September, 2024. This event which was organized under the Airtel Employees Volunteer Scheme (EVS), served as a continuation of the company’s 2024 World Environment Day activities.

    The event saw the participation of over 100 staff members of Airtel Nigeria and students from the Refiners Academy, Sangotedo, who are also students of the Green Fingers Initiative. The students’ involvement aimed to foster inclusivity for those studying at the sustainability center, donated earlier by Airtel, while also reinforcing the recycling practices promoted by the GreenFingers Initiative.

    While appreciating the efforts of employees, Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz, emphasized the importance of consistency in sustainability initiatives.

    “Today’s exercise highlights the power of collective effort in protecting our environment. We are passionate about sustainability, and I encourage everyone to incorporate this into their daily routines, whether at work or during personal activities. The future we envision is one where we have a thriving community, a clean environment, and a healthy planet, and it starts with events like this. I am incredibly proud of the team and the hard work everyone has put in today,” he said.

    Also speaking at the event, Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, Femi Adeniran, highlighted the role of the initiative in promoting sustainable environmental practices.

    “This initiative is part of our broader effort to reduce plastic pollution and encourage sustainable living. By embarking on this clean-up today, we are leading by example and setting a precedent for other organizations to follow. What makes today’s clean-up special is that it is led by our very own employees, reflecting our internal commitment to sustainability. This is just the start of more sustainable engagement to come, as we work towards building a cleaner, healthier environment”

    The event, to which the sustainability Non-Governmental Organization, Green Fingers Initiative, was also invited, signifies Airtel’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability through hands-on efforts, as staff enthusiastically cleared the beach of wastes and litters, making a tangible impact on the cleanliness and preservation of the environment.

    The beach clean-up is one of the many steps Airtel Nigeria is taking towards fulfilling its environmental sustainability goals. By engaging employees and partnering with a sustainability focused organization, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to reducing plastic pollution and preserving the environment for future generations.

  • Airtel Nigeria CEO Advocates Digital Public Infrastructure for Enhanced Service Access

    Airtel Nigeria CEO Advocates Digital Public Infrastructure for Enhanced Service Access

    In a keynote address delivered at the 6th National Day of Identity, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Carl Cruz, highlighted the critical role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in enabling access to essential services for millions of Nigerians.

    The event, organized by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), focused on the theme, “Digital Public Infrastructure: Enabling Access to Services.” It attracted policymakers, business leaders, and experts from the telecommunications, technology, and identity management sectors.

    In his remarks, Mr. Cruz emphasized that DPI, particularly through digital identity systems, is fundamental to ensuring that every Nigerian has access to services such as healthcare, education, and financial services. “Digital Public Infrastructure is the backbone of any modern society,” he said. “It connects people to the essential services they need to thrive, and more importantly, it does so in an inclusive and secure manner. We need to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind as we build a stronger digital economy.”

    Mr. Cruz underscored the importance of digital identity as a gateway to accessing both public and private services. He referenced the COVID-19 pandemic as a pivotal moment that highlighted the necessity of secure identity systems for delivering government aid, healthcare, and financial relief to citizens. “In times of crisis, access to services is not just about convenience; it can mean the difference between receiving timely medical attention or financial support and being left out.”

    As a major player in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, Airtel has been at the forefront of expanding digital connectivity, a key enabler of DPI. The Airtel Nigeria CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving access to digital services through infrastructure expansion. “We have made significant strides in bringing broadband access to underserved communities, ensuring that more Nigerians can participate in the digital economy,” he said.

    The CEO also highlighted Airtel’s collaboration with the government and financial institutions to promote financial inclusion. “Our mobile money platforms are helping to bring financial services to the unbanked population, creating opportunities for millions of Nigerians who previously had limited access to formal financial services,” he noted.

    While praising the progress made in Nigeria’s digital landscape, the Airtel CEO acknowledged challenges such as the digital divide and cybersecurity threats. He called for stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors to bridge these gaps. “It is crucial that we not only expand digital access but also ensure that our systems are secure, so citizens can trust them.”

    Concluding his keynote, Mr. Cruz called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to fully unlock the potential of DPI, which he believes will drive significant progress in healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.

  • “Investment and Collaboration Are Essential for Telecoms to Keep Enabling Other Industries”– Airtel CEO Carl Cruz

    “Investment and Collaboration Are Essential for Telecoms to Keep Enabling Other Industries”– Airtel CEO Carl Cruz

    Carl Cruz, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, has emphasized the critical importance of creating an investment-friendly environment to sustain the role of the telecoms industry in driving digital inclusion and economic growth in Nigeria. This was remarked at the Telecoms Industry Townhall, themed ‘Two Decades After: What Next for the Telecoms Industry’, on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.

    The hybrid event, organized by the Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), took place at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

    Aside from Mr Cruz, the panel also featured Karl Toriola, Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria; Kazeem Oladepo, Chief Operations Officer, IHS Towers; Funke Opeke, Chief Executive Officer, MainOne; and Olatunji Bello, Chief Executive Officer, Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

    During the event, Carl Cruz discussed challenges and ways forward for the telecoms industry, highlighting the need for an atmosphere that would encourage investors to help telecom operators thrive. Telecom, he explained, is an enabler for digital inclusion and economic growth.

    Mr. Cruz said, “One of the major challenges faced by the telecoms industry is the issue of security. The cases of sabotage and fiber theft on a monthly basis are over a thousand.  Now, capital being invested in Nigeria is being compared to capital being invested in other countries due to some of the impacts of these challenges. However, At Airtel, we understand that investing in infrastructure can be challenging, so we adopt a forward-looking approach as we believe that a country’s growth is significantly boosted by substantial investments. To illustrate this, I’m pleased to share that Airtel has established a digital lab here in Nigeria, serving our operations across the 13 other countries where we have a presence.”

    Mr. Cruz further underscored the necessity of a strong regulatory collaboration to support industry growth.

    “Industry collaboration with regulators is also very essential for the country to progress. It is therefore imperative for players in the telecoms industry to engage in constant communication with our regulators, especially to address the limiting factors affecting the telecoms business.  On this note, I can say that Airtel and other operators in the telecoms industry are currently doing this and are optimistic about favorable deliberations and outcomes that will boost the success of the telecoms industry,” he said.

    Other industry leaders also contributed their perspectives on the telecoms industry as it relates to the financial sector and other business areas such as aviation and banking. Some of these speakers include Chief Executive Office, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Temi Popoola; Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Trade, and Investment, John Uwajumogu; and Special Adviser to the Honorable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Armstrong Katang.

  • Airtel Presents Cheques to Infant Quadruplets, Celebrates Meaningful CSR

    Airtel Presents Cheques to Infant Quadruplets, Celebrates Meaningful CSR

    Airtel Nigeria has donated a total of two million naira to the Olayode family, presenting a cheque of five hundred thousand naira to each of the family’s newly-born quadruplets, who had gained significant social media attention earlier in July. The presentation was held at the Olayode residence in Lagos on Wednesday, July 31, 2024.

    This gesture follows the pledge by Airtel on its official X handle to join other well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the young couple whose four babies had arrived as a complete surprise, having gone undetected in several prenatal scans. Airtel’s post read: “When life gives quadruplets, we give #ovajara support! We’re adding N2m because great things come in multiples.”

    Speaking on the donation, Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz, said, “This gesture underscores the dedication of Airtel Nigeria to enriching lives and bringing joy to the communities we serve, especially through our CSR. We understand the economic demand of raising same-age children concurrently in one family, and it is our hope that this donation will serve as a meaningful helping hand to the Olayode family, while also inspiring other individuals and organizations to offer support wherever it may be needed.”

    He expressed the company’s delight in supporting the family as part of its longstanding commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and providing support to the vulnerable in the Nigerian society. 

    “This gesture underscores the dedication of Airtel Nigeria to enriching lives and bringing joy to the communities we serve, especially through our CSR. We understand the economic demand of raising same-age children concurrently in one family, and it is our hope that this donation will serve as a meaningful helping hand to the Olayode family, while also inspiring other individuals and organizations to offer support wherever it may be needed,” he added.

    The birth of the Olayode quadruplets also encapsulates the spirit of the Airtel Ovajara campaign, which is based on the belief that life often exceeds expectations. “As a company, we are proud to demonstrate this understanding in both our services and our actions,” Mr. Cruz remarked.

    Receiving the donation from Airtel on behalf of her husband, Sodiq, and the rest of the family, Mrs. Abiodun Olayode, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Airtel Nigeria for the support.

    “I would like to appreciate Airtel Nigeria for this ovajara kindness. You have stood in for us in this memorable phase of our lives, and I can boldly say that this donation will definitely go a long way in raising our children,” she said.

    Airtel Ovajara is an innovative voice bundle which multiplies the value of subscriber recharges by eight.

    Airtel remains consistent to empowering and uplifting individuals and families in need across the communities it operates. The telco has demonstrated its commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of Nigerians through several individual initiatives and projects under its wide-ranging CSR programs, which includes Airtel Touching Lives, Employee Volunteer Scheme, Adopt A School, and its far-reaching Reimagine Education partnership with UNICEF.