In recent times, telecom companies in Nigeria struggle to uphold their commitment to provide affordable satisfactory services due to the state of the economy. However, the naija-focused 9mobile has continued to thrive in providing reasonable services at fair rates for its users. 9mobile, formerly known as Etisalat Nigeria, is a Nigerian telecommunications company, offering customer-centric services through an innovative approach. Like other telcos, it provides mobile voice and data services, broadband internet, and enterprise solutions. Specifically, the company is known for its efforts to engage youths and drive innovation. The management has been led by several industry giants including the current MD; Obafemi Banigbe.
Under Obafemi Banigbe’s leadership, 9mobile has upheld its commitment to innovation and transforming the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria. With Mr Banigbe at the helm, 9mobile continues to focus on network modernization, strategic partnerships, and customer-centric initiatives. First, 9mobile embarked on a major project to refresh its entire network infrastructure, including radio, core, transmission, billing, and ERP systems. This involved rebuilding the network from the ground up to support a more modern, digital service delivery platform. In line with this, the company deployed 600 new sites with 4G LTE capabilities. This was aimed at enhancing broadband services and improving network capacity.
To strengthen its presence in the telecom landscape, Banigbe-led 9mobile conducted pilot launches of a new service with leading telecom operators in Nigeria and South Sudan. 9mobile is also actively engaging with major telecom partners across sub-Saharan Africa through Proof of Concept (POC) projects. The company is currently deploying its services across Africa targeting 30 countries in four year indicating a strong focus on expanding its reach and market presence.
Mr Obafemi Banigbe did not only pin 9mobile’s focus on internal growth. Understanding the importance of customer engagement, he upheld the telco’s customer-centric initiatives such as the annual Channel Partners conference to strengthen relationships with its channel partners, expand business opportunities, and align on business objectives. Banigbe’s administration is also committed to improving 9mobile’s service quality and ensuring a superior customer experience. This was displayed by the MD’s vocality about the need for a tariff adjustment in the telecom sector. He clearly highlighted the importance of sufficient revenue for reinvestment in network quality and sustainability.
In fulfillment of its corporate social responsibility, 9mobile also went innovative with the 9TEPP program. In partnership with Plymouth University UK and Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, 9mobile introduced the 9mobile Telecommunications Engineering Postgraduate Program (9TEPP), which is the first taught master’s program in West Africa. 9mobile also partnered with UNAIDS and NACA on health initiatives like “Fight Malaria” and HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, and control.
In recognition of its efforts, 9mobile earned an Environmental Management System (EMS) certification through ISO 1001:2004, making it the first mobile network operator in Nigeria to achieve this certification. Deductibly, 9mobile’s initiatives have positively impacted its customers through improved network quality, innovative digital solutions, and community-focused programs. These initiatives have led to increased customer satisfaction, greater access to digital services, and empowerment of individuals and businesses.
This is not farfetched as Obafemi Banigbe adopted a fine leadership philosophy which centers on transparency, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of excellence. He believes in empowering his team by fostering an inclusive workplace, and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships to achieve strategic goals.
With plans for future relevance, 9mobile looks to be repositioned as a service-first telecommunications company, prioritizing customer experience and digital solutions. This involves modernizing infrastructure, expanding network coverage (particularly with 4G and 5G), and offering innovative digital services beyond traditional voice and data. The company also aims to empower individuals and businesses with greater access to financial services and seamless digital transactions, contributing to Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Above all, 9mobile prioritizes innovation and customer satisfaction by focusing on quality service, cutting-edge technology, and a customer-centric approach. This includes investing in network infrastructure, embracing digital advancements, and actively seeking customer feedback to improve their offerings and user experience. Additionally, 9mobile demonstrates a strong commitment to employee development and empowerment through various initiatives. These include mentorship programs, digital skills training, and opportunities for internal mobility, all aimed at fostering a skilled and engaged workforce. The company also invests in talent development aligned with strategic objectives and promotes a culture of collaboration and potential maximization.
Without further ado, nothing is left to be said concerning the determination of this naija-focused telco to transform the Nigerian telecom industry and economy at large. Considering that the proactive Obafemi Banigbe is at the helm of affairs, this feat is not outside reach. 9mobile is poised to drive groundbreaking pioneer innovations in the telecom landscape.
