At the Nigeria Telecoms Awards 2008 held in Lagos, Mr. Bayo Ligali of Zain Nigeria (formerly Celtel Nigeria) was named CEO of the Year.

Ligali was recognised for his astute leadership and outstanding contributions to the growth of Zain Nigeria, and development of telecommunications in Nigeria, as well as for being the face of the industry within a short time of coming into the telecommunications business.

According to the Board of Trustees of Telecom Awards, his philosophy of constructive engagement with government and lawmakers on the issue of Quality of Service led to a moratorium for operators, which has resulted in significant improvements.

Ligali made headlines and drew public acclaim early this year, when he apologised to customers for poor quality of service and committed to immediate and accelerated network expansion to remedy the situation. He was also honoured for “not only keeping his word, but leading his company, Zain Nigeria, to become the fastest growing with over 200 per cent increase in base station and switches, and a corresponding increase in network capacity.

The Board of Trustees of Telecom Awards praised Ligali’s leadership, saying “since he took over the reins of Celtel (now Zain) a year and half ago, he has re-invigorated operations and galvanised the workforce into committing to reclaiming the top position in the telecommunications industry.

“Zain’s active customers, it further stated, “have increased from 5.4 million in May 2006, to over 15.5 million and the company currently ranks strong second (and contending No. 1) in the highly competitive Nigerian telecommunications market, with a vision to become number one by 2011,” the statement said.

Profile

Bayo Ligali, 52, has over 15 years top management experience, having held various executive positions within the Unilever Group. Prior to his appointment as CEO of the Zain Nigeria, he was the Managing Director of Dangote Pasta Plc. A Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, he is also an Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

Via: ITNews Africa