9mobile appoints Obafemi Banigbe as CEO – TheCitizen

As part of its preparations for a new phase of business transformation, the Board of Directors of Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Limited (EMTS), trading as 9mobile, has announced the appointment of seasoned telecommunications expert, technology business leader and advisor, Obafemi Banigbe, as the company’s Chief Executive Officer.

He replaces the outgoing CEO, Juergen Peschel, who will remain as a consultant to support the corporate transformation process that was initiated under his leadership.

This change is in line with 9mobile’s tradition of business continuity and is intended to facilitate the launch of a comprehensive business transformation for the company.

Banigbe brings extensive executive experience and an in-depth understanding of Africa’s complex business landscape, placing emphasis on the critical importance of translating business objectives and commercial requirements into comprehensive strategies that lead to effective execution.

Banigbe started his telecom career at Celtel, now known as Airtel Nigeria, as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to that, he held senior positions at Ericsson within the Sub-Saharan Africa market unit, culminating in his prestigious position as Head of Network Support Group for Access and Transport Networks.

Previously, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Millicom Ghana, where he was responsible for the company’s operational strategy in Ghana.

His career at Millicom Group includes key positions such as Interim CEO and previously CTO of Millicom Ghana and Millicom International Cellular Tanzania.

Banigbe’s extensive international experience includes the United States and a number of African countries.

Previously, he was the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Silver Rock Technology Services Ghana, a strategic consulting firm specialising in the telecommunications, media and technology sectors.

He also served as a non-executive director of Amplitude Telecoms, a provider of tower infrastructure in Nigeria. As a member of the advisory board of Telecel Group, Banigbe played a key role in leading the group’s successful acquisition of Vodafone Ghana.

His consulting portfolio is enriched by the knowledge of Nsano Group, a leading Fintech platform operating in many countries in Africa. Previously, he shared his knowledge with Kirusa Group in New Jersey, USA, providing valuable advice on product development and go-to-market strategies.

EMTS (9mobile) Management Board stated, “We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the positive impact Obafemi will have in shaping the future of 9mobile. He brings with him vision, passion and years of experience from diverse backgrounds, which will consolidate our priorities to deliver excellent customer experiences and consistent network quality. Obafemi is expected to work closely with the Board of Directors and all stakeholders to define credible and achievable long-term business plans by implementing solutions to meet the evolving needs of the Nigerian telecommunications market.”

“The Nigerian telecommunications sector is highly competitive, but it is also a sector that provides opportunities to various stakeholders. I am delighted to be joining the 9mobile family and look forward to leveraging my experience and unique value propositions to lead the company in the next exciting phase of its journey. The aim is to build on the company’s existing foundations to create value that will transform the Nigerian telecommunications sector,” Banigbe said.

Banigbe earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria.

He furthered his expertise by participating in the Ericsson Management Development Program, the Advanced Management Program at London Business School and concluded his academic career with an MBA from Manchester Business School in the UK.