Tinubu Hails Lebara’s Entry as “Vote of Confidence” in Nigeria’s Digital Economy

​ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the official launch of Lebara Nigeria as a powerful “vote of confidence” in the nation’s digital trajectory, signaling Nigeria’s ascent as Africa’s premier destination for high-tech investment.

​The British-backed telecommunications giant formally signaled its entry into the Nigerian market this week, hosting a high-profile soft launch in Lagos. The event, held in partnership with the British High Commission, marks a strategic expansion for Lebara as it eyes a slice of a sector that contributed over 14% to Nigeria’s GDP in 2025.

​Driving Growth and Inclusion

​In a statement released Saturday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted the telecommunications sector’s resilience. The industry recorded a 5.78% year-on-year growth in Q3 2025, cementing its role as a primary engine of the national economy.

​”Investments of this nature are critical to deepening financial inclusion, enabling innovation, and accelerating economic growth,” the President stated. He praised the leadership of Lebara Nigeria, specifically Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Teniola Stuffman, for her commitment to bridging the digital divide and creating high-value jobs for Nigerian youth.

​Speaking at the Lagos launch, Stuffman noted that Nigeria is at a “defining moment,” emphasizing that Lebara’s “Telco Trinity”—reliability, affordability, and customer-centricity—will be the cornerstone of their operations. The company, which holds a Tier 5 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) license, plans to leverage infrastructure from partners like Airtel Nigeria to provide seamless connectivity.

​Strengthening UK-Nigeria Ties

​The presence of the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter, at the launch was also acknowledged by the President as a testament to the enduring diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

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​President Tinubu further commended the Advisory Board, led by Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, for their “leadership and belief in Nigeria’s growth potential.”

​The administration reiterated its promise to maintain a stable and transparent regulatory environment, aimed at fostering a climate where private enterprises like Lebara can thrive. As Lebara begins its commercial rollout—marked by the unveiling of its dedicated 0724 number series—the President encouraged deeper synergy between the public and private sectors to drive the nation’s digital transformation