The CEO and Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, has been named the African Industry Personality of the Year by the Editorial Board of the African Leadership Magazine.
Airtel, in a statement on Thursday, said that the Leadership Magazine were the organisers of the prestigious African Business Leadership Awards 2020.
It said that Ogunsanya was presented the award at a colourful virtual ceremony held on Sept. 30.
Airtel noted that the virtual event was attended by Ernest Bai Koroma, former President, Republic of Sierra Leone; John Rwangombwa, Governor, National Bank of Rwanda and Mele Kyari, Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group , among others.
According to the Magazine, “the Industry Personality of the Year award recognises the individual whose vision and innovations have become drivers of growth in particular industry sectors.
“It also recognises people that have permanently impacted in the way of doing business in that particular sector.’’
Ogunsanya emerged winner after a three-step point-based selection process was done and reviewed,’’ it said.
The company said that other contestants in the industry personality of the year award category were Joao Figueiredo, CEO, Moza Banco, Mozambique (who emerged first runner-up), and Paul Gbededo, CEO, Flour Mills of Nigeria.
Commenting on the recognition, Ogunsanya expressed appreciation to his colleagues for their support and backing, while he dedicated the award to Airtel Nigeria customers, as well as other telecoms consumers.
“This award is a special present to me, as we celebrate our 60th anniversary.
“This could not have come at a better time,” he said.
According to the statement, the keenly contested awards attracted over 220, 000 entries on the magazine’s website and across the social media platform.
The Publisher of the Magazine, Dr Ken Giami, said: “Africa depends on businesses and its leaders for sustenance, jobs and wealth creation.”
The Publisher said that at this time when there was widespread disruptions occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, the role and place of the business community was to serve their clients.
He noted that their role was also to become strong positive references for society on how to thrive amidst uncertainties.
