Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Limited (EMTS), operating as 9mobile, has appointed Obafemi Banigbe as its new Chief Executive Officer. This move represents a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing transformation efforts. Banigbe replaces Juergen Peschel, the outgoing CEO, who will remain involved as a Consultant to aid the transition.
Banigbe brings extensive experience at the executive level, with a deep understanding of the African business landscape. His career began at Celtel, now Airtel Nigeria, where he served as the Director of Operations. He also held key roles at Ericsson, including Network Support Group Manager for Access and Transport Networks. His tenure at Millicom Ghana as Chief Operations Officer included a period as Interim CEO, as well as Chief Technical Officer roles in Ghana and Tanzania.
His international experience spans the United States and several African countries. Before joining 9mobile, Banigbe co-founded Silver Rock Technology Services Ghana, a strategic advisory firm in the Telecom, Media, and Technology sectors. He also served as a Non-Executive Director at Amplitude Telecoms and was an Advisory Board member for Telecel Group, playing a key role in their acquisition of Vodafone Ghana.
The Board of EMTS expressed excitement about Banigbe’s appointment, highlighting his vision, passion, and extensive experience. They believe he will consolidate 9mobile’s priorities to provide superior customer experience and sustained network quality. Banigbe is expected to work closely with the Board and stakeholders to develop long-term business plans and address the evolving needs of the Nigerian telecommunication market.
“The Nigerian telecoms industry is characterized by strong competition, but it is also an industry that provides opportunities for different stakeholders. I am delighted to join the 9mobile family and I look forward to using my experience and unique value propositions to lead the company in the next exciting phase of its journey. The goal is to build on the existing foundation of the company to create value that will transform the Nigerian telecoms sector. Banigbe said.”
Obafemi Banigbe holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria. He furthered his education with the Ericsson Management Development Program, the Advanced Management Program at the London Business School, and an MBA from Manchester Business School, U.K. He also served as Senior Partner: Strategy and Technology with Africa Context Advisory Partners before his appointment by 9mobile.
