Cellular network operator MTN Group is relocating its chief operating officer to Nigeria to help deal with high levels of consumer demand in that country.
COO Sifiso Dabengwa is being deployed to Nigeria to head the operation on a medium-term contract starting in August. MTN says he will continue to head the group`s operations as COO, although based in Nigeria.
Chief technology officer Karel Pienaar will serve as acting MD for MTN SA until a permanent appointment is made.
"The location of our COO in Nigeria, in his dual capacity, is indicative of the significance of MTN Nigeria for the MTN Group," says MTN CEO Phuthuma Nhleko. "Dabengwa brings considerable operational expertise to our Nigerian operation, which is in urgent need of expansion to meet the overwhelming consumer demand."
MTN Nigeria contributes more to the group`s profit than the South African operation, with MTN Nigeria generating R2.37 billion after tax in the year to 31 March, compared with SA`s R2.25 billion.
In the most recent financial year, the number of subscribers in Nigeria grew by 90% to 1.96 million. Nhleko said at the release of the group`s financial results last month that meeting consumer demand was one of MTN Nigeria`s greatest challenges.
The current Nigerian CEO is Adrian Wood, whose contract is expiring.
"Adrian Wood has been exemplary in his management of our Nigerian operation and we will be exploring other possible avenues where the group can continue to benefit from his talent," says Nhleko.
"The location of our COO in Nigeria, in his dual capacity, is indicative of the significance of MTN Nigeria for the MTN Group. Dabengwa brings considerable operational expertise to our Nigerian operation, which is in urgent need of expansion to meet the overwhelming consumer demand."
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