Nigerian telecommunications services provider 9mobile has thrown its weight behind the West African country’s government plans to transform the economy – specifically the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy.

This is the country’s official policy direction that has been developed with the objective to position Nigeria in the global digital economy, as well as improve security, reduce corruption and expand the economy.

CEO Alan Sinfield confirmed the company’s support during a visit to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, at his office in Abuja.

Pantami highlighted the Ministry's efforts to improve broadband penetration and digital roll-out and said the government would continue to intervene to address issues confronting mobile network operators and other players in the sector.

The Minister hailed the appointment of Sinfield and said his experience represents what is needed in Nigeria's telecommunications sector at this time.

"I read about your appointment on June 1, the same day it was announced, and I was excited because we need people with creative, analytical thinking and innovative ideas that will come and support us in driving the sector forward," Pantami said.

He also commended 9mobile's growth plans, as laid out by Sinfield, and assured that the government would continue to facilitate the enabling environment for the industry to thrive.

Pantami added: "I'm excited about your innovative ideas. Your plan is highly impressive, and I'm glad that you are ambitious. As a government, we will provide a more enabling environment for the industry and especially indigenous companies like you to thrive. We have many policies that are promoting indigenous investments and innovation that will positively impact the economy.”

Sinfield has also recently met with the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Professor Umar Danbatta, at NCC's Zonal Office, Ikoyi, Lagos.

9mobile recently announced the appointment of business growth executive Stjepan Udovicic as the company’s Chief Commercial Officer.

Udovicic joins 9mobile from the Axiata Group Berhad and its operating company in Cambodia (Smart) and s tasked with leading lead the marketing, products, sales, distribution, customer services, and digital front-ends.