Nigeria’s telecommunication industry watchers and economist have cautioned that if the sale of 9Mobile is not done with diligence and utmost transparency in tandem with international best practices, the implication could be disastrous.
Speaking at a seminar in Lagos with the theme “Nigeria: Sustainable Growth after Recession” they noted that growth of the telecoms sector has been geometric could be fortified with the sale of 9Mobile if done with more transparency.
They expressed dismay that some vested interest had sought to derail the sale of the troubled telco by announcing the emergence of a preferred bidder.
Mukoro Okotete, a prominent developmental economist, cautioned at the forum that for the sale of 9Mobile to yield the desired dividends, it has to be done blatantly off preemptive announcement designed to feather the nest of an interested party.
Okotete noted that if the sale of 9Mobile is properly managed, it would have multiple positive effects on the nation’s economy. He listed the advantages to include; deepening of the nation’s telecom market and the enhancement of effective competition in the industry.
Such a transparent transaction will lead to a revitalized 9Mobile thereby enhancing the employment opportunities within the company. There will allied job opportunities occasioned by sundry suppliers, contractors and indirect staff.
He emphasized that the multiplier effects of the sale to a capable and recognizable company are enormous and will serve the best interest of the country.
In the submission of Enobong Udoh, an analyst, the Nigerian economy seems to be on the upward swing but the life of the average Nigerian is yet to record commensurate improvement.
He urged Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the industry regulator to be more vigilant for the sake of the sector
“On 9Mobile, I advised that NCC keeps to its tradition of transparency policy, which has seen to the emergence of only competent organisations as major operators in the nation’s telecoms landscape.”
“It is imperative that a regulatory position ensure that 9Mobile is not handed over to “an unknown quantity” with the attendant risks instead of a firm with evident ability by way of enviable track record in Nigeria and other parts of Africa should be a better option. “
He surmised that the two finalists in the bid for 9Mobile, Teleology Holdings and Smile Telecoms should be commended for coming thus far.
He however explained; “Smile Telecoms Holdings, based on all indices of good business practice and performance will revitalise 9Mobile.” He further opined that, “what is needed is a tested and trusted hand that will be able to turn around the fortunes of the ailing telco in the best interest of all and sundry.
“Teleology Holdings should however be a reserve bidder force.”
