Emerging Markets Telecommunications Limited, widely known as 9Mobile, has announced the appointment of a new CEO to succeed Juergen Peschel, the outgoing chief executive.
The Board of Directors has named Obafemi Banigbe as the new head of the wireless service provider, as per a statement released on Thursday.
Banigbe is tasked with steering the company through its next phase of business, while Peschel will continue with 9Mobile as a consultant to aid in the business transformation process he initiated during his tenure.
“This transition is consistent with 9Mobile’s tradition of business continuity to ease the start of the holistic business transformation of the company,” the statement read.
Banigbe’s extensive C-suite experience and deep understanding of the African business environment were highlighted. He is known for translating business goals and commercial needs into effective strategies that ensure successful implementation.
Mr. Banigbe earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria State.
He began his telecommunications career as the director of operations at Celtel, now Airtel.
Before this role, he held various positions at Ericsson within the sub-Saharan Africa Market Unit, including network support group manager for access and transport network.
During his time as the chief operations officer at Millicom Ghana, he spearheaded the operational strategy for the company’s Ghanaian unit.
He also served as interim CEO and chief technical officer at Millicom Ghana and Millicom International Cellular Tanzania.
As a managing partner and co-founder at Silver Rock Technology Services Ghana, Banigbe played a key role in the acquisition of Vodafone Ghana as an advisory board member of the Telecel Group. At Nsano Group, a leading fintech platform with a presence in multiple African countries, he provided advisory services, enhancing his professional repertoire.
“Obafemi is expected to work closely with the board of directors and all stakeholders to define credible and achievable long-term business plans through the introduction of solutions to address the evolving needs of the Nigerian telecommunication market,” 9Mobile stated.
Banigbe has attended several executive management courses, including the Ericsson Development Management Program and the Advanced Management Program at the London Business School. He also holds an MBA from the Manchester Business School.
Prior to this appointment, Banigbe served as the senior partner for strategy and technology at Africa Context Advisory Partners.
