President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the official launch of Lebara Nigeria, describing it as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s growing digital economy and its emergence as a prime technology and investment hub in Africa.
In a statement issued Saturday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu congratulated the company on its entry into the Nigerian market, noting that the milestone signals investor confidence in the country’s economic reforms and digital transformation agenda.
“I congratulate Lebara Nigeria on its official launch. This milestone reflects confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy and underscores the nation’s potential to lead in technology and investment across Africa,” the President said.
Tinubu highlighted the telecommunications sector as a key driver of economic growth, citing a 5.78 per cent year-on-year expansion in the third quarter of 2025 and an overall contribution of more than 14 per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
He commended Lebara Nigeria’s leadership, particularly its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Teniola Stuffman, for advancing initiatives aimed at expanding telecom access, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure.
“Investments of this nature are critical to deepening financial inclusion, enabling innovation, and accelerating economic growth,” Tinubu stated.
The President also acknowledged the support of the British High Commission, represented at the launch by Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Jonny Baxter, saying their presence underscores the enduring economic and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Tinubu further praised Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Lebara Nigeria’s Advisory Board, and other board members for their leadership and confidence in Nigeria’s growth potential.
According to the President, initiatives such as Lebara Nigeria will contribute significantly to job creation, youth empowerment, enterprise development, and economic diversification.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a stable and investment-friendly environment where private enterprise and innovation can flourish, while encouraging sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors to advance Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Lebara Nigeria formally marked its entry into Africa’s largest telecom market on Wednesday with a private soft launch and networking reception in Lagos, organized in partnership with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade and the British High Commission.
The rollout follows preparatory steps taken in June last year, including the unveiling of its dedicated 0724 number series and securing full interconnectivity with major mobile network operators — key requirements ahead of commercial operations.
Speaking at the Lagos event, CEO Teniola Stuffman described Nigeria as a nation at a defining moment, emphasizing the need for more inclusive, affordable, and globally connected digital access.
“Our entry into the market is driven by this conviction,” she said.
