Airtel Nigeria CEO, Carl Cruz, has emphasized the crucial role of investment and collaboration in sustaining the telecoms industry’s contribution to Nigeria’s digital economy and overall growth.
Speaking at the Telecoms Industry Townhall on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, Cruz highlighted the need for an investment-friendly environment to support the sector’s expansion.
The event, organized by the Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector. Alongside Cruz, panelists included MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola, IHS Towers’ COO Kazeem Oladepo, MainOne CEO Funke Opeke and FCCPC CEO Olatunji Bello.
Addressing challenges facing the industry, Cruz pointed to the significant issue of security, including frequent cases of sabotage and fiber theft. These incidents, he said, deter investors due to comparisons with safer investment climates. Despite these hurdles, Airtel remains committed to infrastructure development, as evidenced by its digital lab in Nigeria, which supports operations across 13 countries.
Cruz also stressed the importance of strong collaboration between the telecoms industry and regulators. He emphasized the need for open communication to address challenges and create an environment conducive to industry growth.
Other industry leaders, including NGX Group CEO Temi Popoola, Presidential Adviser John Uwajumogu, and Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance Armstrong Katang, shared their perspectives on the telecoms industry’s impact on the financial sector and other business areas.