Digitalise Nigeria to revamp economy – Airtel CEO tells Buhari

The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Segun Ogunsanya has advised President Muhammadu Buhari and his economic team to explore the immense opportunities inherent in the Information Technology sector to revamp the dwindling economy of the country.

Ogunsanya, argued that the country can concentrate on the power of Information Technology to drive the GDP.

According to him, technology creates access to lots of areas and Nigeria must be ready to maximise the opportunities it offer.

He noted that technology opens access to education, health, security, and urbanisation of the rural areas.

Ogunsanya, gave the advice when speaking at the Nigeria Stock Exchange /Bloomberg CEOs Roundtable in Lagos advised the economic team of the Federal Government to profile Telecommunication Companies as manufacturers so they can access forex.

He noted that the Telcos manufacture SIM cards and access to forex will aid their operations greatly.

According to him, over 80% of Nigerian population irrespective of the age has SIM card.

He emphasised that this will help boost the lifestyles and standard of living of the average Nigerian even those in rural areas.

Other panelists who spoke on the economy at the event include Darnesh Gordhon, CEO Nestle Nigeria, Dr Ogho Okiti, an Economic & Policy Analyst, Ayo Fashina, Director – Investment Banking from Chapel Hill Denham, Mark Bohlund, a Senior Economist on Africa and Middle East from Bloomberg.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Oscar Onyema gave the welcome address as he lauds the partnership between the NSE and Bloomberg.

The theme of the roundtable is: Navigating the Changing Business Landscape in Nigeria.