Mahama Extols Adenuga’s Pivotal Role in African Telecoms

The pivotal role played by Globacom Chairman, Mr. Mike Adenuga, Jr., in the development of Africa’s telecommunications landscape has been commended by President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana.

He noted that Adenuga’scourageous foray into the telecommunications industry hitherto dominated by foreign investors had brought joy and pride to all Africans.
Mahama made the observation during his induction into the Ovation Hall of Fame held as part of the 2016 Ovation Green Carol sponsored by Globacom in Lagos. He explained that Adenuga’s accomplishment on the continent was why “our nation recently conferred Ghana’s highest award of the Companion of the Star of Ghana (CSG) on him.”

“Adenuga is one African who had broken through in telecommunications and entrepreneurship as a whole. From my experience since I was a Deputy Communications Minister and later Communication Minister, the industry was dominated by foreign companies until Adenuga came with his submarine cables and innovations. That was why we recently presented him with the highest award. It is good to honour our foremost business people,” the Ghanaian President stated.

He equally commended the Publisher of Ovation Magazine, Chief Dele Momodu, for his giant strides in the last 20 years of publishing Ovation Magazine and the success of the ninth edition of the Ovation Carol.

He described Momodu as “a pan-Africanist, a passionate believer in democracy, a patriot and a comrade.”

Mahama also spoke on his loss in the just-concluded elections, saying: “While I might feel disappointed that Ghanaians did not see what I was trying to do, the will of the people must be respected. In four years time, there will be another election and the people will speak. Let the narrative be that Africa is developed. I have moved on and will hand over on January 7.”
Globacom’s Commercial Coordinator, Enterprise Business Group, Mr. Folu Aderibigbe, who spoke on behalf of the company at the carol, said Globacom was motivated by the desire to impact people positively.

“From the per second billing which made telecommunications services accessible to all, to our numerous firsts culminating lately, to the speed of life, the Glo 4G LTE, we have always ensured provision of quality products at affordable rates to our esteemed subscribers. This is our bond with Nigerians and we assure you that we will never renege on this.”

He added: “It is also for this reason that we have continued to partner with laudable initiatives like the Ovation Carol, an international star-studded musical fiesta organized to give thanks to the Almighty for His numerous mercies in the out-going year.”

Other highlights of the event were the induction of Juju maestro, King Sunny Ade, into the Ovation Hall of Fame, and presentation of cash rewards to the family of late OJB Jezreel and Cymbals Dance Crew. A Ghanaian, Mr. Richard McCarthy, was also rewarded with N500,000 for his efforts in taking Ghanaian kids off the streets through boxing.

It was a highly entertaining event with the artistes putting up superlative performances. Legendary American band, Cameo, performed with a full band in Africa for the first time, and evoked nostalgic feelings among the audience with old tunes including ‘Single’ and ‘Attack me with your love.’

The Nigerian artistes led by Flavour and King Sunny Ade were exceptional in their stage craft as they kept the audience on their feet into the early hours of the morning.