The Federal Government of Nigeria has named leading telecoms operator, Airtel Nigeria, amongst the first 20 companies in its Top 100 Businesses in Nigeria 2014.
The Top 100 Businesses in Nigeria 2014 is an initiative of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, to recognize the critical role leading corporate entities play in the development of the country’s economy.
Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, received the award, on behalf of the company at a colourful ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. With the Nigerian President as chief host, the event also had in attendance, the Vice President, President of the Senate, members of the Federal Executive Council and many of the notable business leaders in Nigeria.
Speaking during the award presentation, the President said Nigeria has become the preferred location for investment in Africa, and one of the leading investment destinations in the world. “The economic transformation of our country will be underpinned on mobilizing local and foreign investments to create jobs for our people, wealth for our investors, income for our nation and dignity for all Nigerians. This is a vision we are committed to… this is a goal we will achieve.
“Our large businesses are a source of national inspiration, and are a core part of ‘brand Nigeria.’ They inspire our nation on what is possible in Nigeria. These businesses have emerged in towns and cities all across the country; for each company the story is unique, and for each investor, the journey reveals the greatness of Nigeria. Each of our leading companies should be identified, and each of them should be celebrated,” he said.
A citation in honour of Airtel Nigeria described the telco as a leading global telecommunications company, noting that “2014 saw Airtel become the second largest telecommunications service provider in Nigeria, continuing the progress towards achieving the company’s vision of being the most loved brand in the daily lives of Nigerians by 2015.”
Commenting on the recognition, Airtel’s CEO, Ogunsanya, expressed appreciation to the staff and customers of the telco, saying Airtel is committed to its vision of becoming the most loved brand in Nigeria.
He also assured that the company will continue to go the extra mile in exceeding the expectations of stakeholders in line with its corporate philosophy of becoming the employer of first choice for talented Nigerians.
“It is always more difficult to sustain a milestone than to achieve it. But we will continue to work very hard to become the best company for our customers and for all Nigerians,” he said.
