Lebara Nigeria launch earns presidential praise as Tinubu highlights telecom investment’s role in driving digital growth and job creation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the official Lebara Nigeria launch, describing the telecommunications company’s entry into the country as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s growing digital economy and investment potential.

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The President’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the development reflects increasing global confidence in Nigeria as a leading technology destination in Africa.

President Tinubu stated that the Lebara Nigeria launch represents a significant milestone for the nation’s telecommunications sector, which he identified as a critical driver of economic expansion.

According to the President, the sector recorded a 5.78 per cent year-on-year growth in the third quarter of 2025 and contributes more than 14 per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.

He commended the leadership of the company, particularly Chief Executive Officer Mrs Teniola Stuffman, for advancing investment aimed at expanding telecom access, strengthening digital infrastructure and creating employment opportunities.

President Tinubu noted that investments within the sector remain vital for deepening financial inclusion, supporting innovation and accelerating sustainable economic growth across the country.

The President also acknowledged the participation of the British High Commission, represented at the launch by Deputy High Commissioner Mr Jonny Baxter, describing the engagement as evidence of enduring economic and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Recognition was equally extended to Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Lebara Nigeria’s Advisory Board, alongside other board members whose leadership, the President said, demonstrates confidence in Nigeria’s long-term growth trajectory.

Lebara Nigeria formally signalled its entry into Africa’s largest telecommunications market earlier in the week through a private soft launch and networking reception held in Lagos in collaboration with the United Kingdom’s Department for Business and Trade and the British High Commission.

The company’s commercial rollout follows preparatory steps completed in June last year, including the unveiling of its dedicated 0724 number series and the securing of full interconnectivity with major mobile network operators, a key regulatory requirement for operations.

Speaking at the Lagos event, Chief Executive Officer Teniola Stuffman described Nigeria as a nation at a defining technological moment, stressing that the company’s expansion is driven by the need to deliver more inclusive, affordable and globally connected digital services.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a stable and investment-friendly environment capable of supporting innovation and private enterprise, urging sustained collaboration between government and industry stakeholders to advance Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda.

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The Lebara Nigeria launch is widely viewed as a strategic development expected to intensify competition within the telecoms industry while expanding digital access for millions of users nationwide.