Airtel Africa appoints new Managing Director and CEO

Segun Ogunsanya has been part of Airtel Africa in 2012 as Managing Director and CEO Nigeria and has been responsible for the overall management of our operations in Nigeria, company’s largest market in Africa. Segun has more than 25 years’ business management experience in banking, consumer goods and telecoms.

“Having been part of the Airtel Africa journey for the past nine years, I am looking forward to taking up the role of Chief Executive Officer. On a personal note, as an African, I feel honoured to have the opportunity to lead a Group that continues to make a difference to millions of people, bridge the digital divide and expand financial inclusion.”

Segun Ogunsanya

Segun held leadership roles at Coca-Cola in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya (as MD and CEO) before joining Airtel in 2012. He has also been the Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd and Group head of retail banking operations at Ecobank Transnational Inc, covering 28 countries in Africa. He is an electronics engineer and also a chartered accountant.

“This is an exciting opportunity to position Airtel Africa for further success in a dynamic continent full of potential. I look forward to building on the achievements of the last five years during Raghu’s leadership.”

Segun Ogunsanya

Raghu Mandava will be retiring as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, as a Director of Airtel Africa plc and as a member of the Market Disclosure Committee on 30 September 2021. Arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities. Following his cessation of employment at Airtel Africa, Mandava will be available to advise the Chairman, the Airtel Africa Board and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for a 9-month period.

“Ogunsanya had displayed significant drive and energy in turning around the Nigeria business by focusing on network modernisation, distribution, and operational efficiency. It is this commitment, together with his industry experience, strategic vision, constant customer focus and proven record of delivery that will enable him to continue to deliver our strategic objectives and to lead the Group in the next stages of its development.”

Bharti Mittal, Chairman Airtel Africa

Airtel Africa plc has a presence in 14 African countries including Nigeria, DRC, Zambia, Rwanda, Malawi and Seychelles.