Airtel Africa has announced the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun “Segun” Ogunsanya, with effect from July 1, 2024. The company also announced the appointment of Sunil Taldar as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer to succeed Ogunsanya on his retirement. Taldar joined Airtel Africa in October 2023 as Director – Transformation and will begin the transition to the CEO role, working alongside Ogunsanya.

Ogunsanya joined Airtel in 2012 and ran the Nigeria operations of the telecom and mobile money company for nine years before he was appointed as the CEO of the Group in 2021. With local knowledge of the African landscape and deep distribution experience, he led the company in maintaining double-digit revenue growth over many quarters. The company claims that Ogunsanya also helped Airtel to deliver new, innovative products to its customers across the continent.

Airtel Africa undertook multiple projects during his time as CEO. This includes the launch of the company’s first sustainability strategy. Given his deep experience across Africa, Ogunsanya is also set to become the Airtel Africa Charitable Foundation’s inaugural Chairman.

The Airtel Africa Charitable Foundation is aimed at accelerating the company’s commitment to sustainability initiatives and charitable operations across its locations in Africa. Its objectives will focus on promoting digital inclusion, financial inclusion, access to education, and environmental protection. The foundation will be a separate legal entity and be independent of the Airtel Africa Group.

Following his retirement from Airtel Africa, Ogunsanya will also be available to advise the Chairman, the Airtel Africa Board, and the Chief Executive Officer for a 12-month period.

Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Airtel Africa, expressed his gratitude to Segun Ogansanya for his commitment and significant contribution to Airtel Africa as Chief Executive and Managing Director and CEO of Nigeria, the company’s largest market in Africa.