In a move that signals the regulator’s commitment to enhanced corporate governance, the NCC has handed Globacom a 24-month deadline to appoint a separate Chief Executive Officer distinct from its current chairman position. This unprecedented directive stems from the newly minted “Guidelines on Corporate Governance for the Communications Industry,” rolled out by the commission in March 2025.
The regulatory shift represents a significant departure from traditional corporate structures that have dominated Nigeria’s telecom sector for decades, where dual roles have been commonplace among industry leaders.
Industry-Wide Transformation
This isn’t just about Globacom. The new governance framework applies universally to all licensed telecommunications operators across Nigeria, marking a watershed moment for corporate accountability in the sector. The NCC’s mandate requires a clear separation of powers between Board Chairman and CEO roles—a move designed to establish robust checks and balances within organizational hierarchies.
Industry analysts view this as part of Nigeria’s broader push toward international corporate governance standards, aligning with global best practices seen in mature telecommunications markets.
The Stakes Are High
Failure to comply within the two-year window comes with serious consequences. Globacom faces potential regulatory sanctions from the NCC, though the specific nature of these penalties remains to be detailed. The regulatory pressure underscores the commission’s determination to modernize Nigeria’s telecom governance landscape.
For Globacom, which has operated under its current leadership structure since inception, this represents one of the most significant organizational changes in the company’s history. The telecom operator will need to navigate succession planning, talent acquisition, and structural reorganization—all while maintaining competitive operations in Nigeria’s intense telecommunications market.
What This Means for Nigeria’s Telecom Future
This governance overhaul signals the NCC’s evolving regulatory philosophy, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and professional management structures. As Nigeria’s telecom sector continues expanding, with 5G deployments and digital transformation initiatives gaining momentum, stronger corporate governance frameworks become increasingly critical.
The ripple effects will likely extend beyond Globacom, potentially influencing how other major players like MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, and 9mobile structure their leadership teams.
