Tinubu Hails Launch of Lebara Nigeria as Boost to Digital Economy
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the official launch of Lebara Nigeria, describing it as a significant boost to the nation’s digital economy and a strong signal of investor confidence in the telecommunications sector.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the development underscores Nigeria’s growing potential as a leading technology and investment destination in Africa.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Lebara Nigeria on its official launch, describing the milestone as a strong vote of confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy and its future as a leading technology and investment destination in Africa,” the statement read in part.
The President commended the company’s leadership, including its Chief Executive Officer, Teniola Stuffman, for their commitment to expanding telecommunications access, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure. He noted that such investments are critical to deepening financial inclusion, promoting innovation, and accelerating economic growth.
Highlighting the performance of the telecom sector, Tinubu said it grew by 5.78 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2025 and contributed over 14 per cent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), reflecting its strategic importance to the national economy.
The President also acknowledged the role of the British High Commission, represented at the launch by Deputy High Commissioner Johny Baxter, noting that the collaboration demonstrates strong economic and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He further recognised the company’s Advisory Board, including Chairman Bimbo Ashiru, for their confidence in Nigeria’s growth prospects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to maintaining a stable and investment-friendly business environment.
Lebara Nigeria recently commenced operations in the country, offering mobile services tailored to individuals, students, businesses, and Nigerians in the diaspora. The company is part of the broader Lebara Group, which operates in multiple countries and focuses on enhancing connectivity locally and internationally.
As part of its entry into the Nigerian market, the firm has unveiled initiatives aimed at promoting digital inclusion through strategic partnerships and community-focused internet hubs. Information available on the company’s website indicates that its products are designed to make communication more affordable and accessible nationwide, with customised plans for various user segments.
The launch comes amid sustained growth in Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the ICT sector accounted for 10.07 per cent of Nigeria’s real GDP in the fourth quarter of 2025, up from 9.79 per cent in 2024.
The ICT sector comprises telecommunications and information services, publishing, motion picture and music production, as well as broadcasting. Analysts say the steady expansion of the sector reflects the impact of increased investments in technology and telecommunications infrastructure, with new entrants such as Lebara Nigeria expected to further drive digital transformation, job creation, and economic diversification.
With its entry into the market, Lebara Nigeria is positioned as a new player in the country’s competitive telecom landscape, contributing to broader efforts to expand digital access and strengthen Nigeria’s standing as a technology hub in Africa.
