Globacom’s Vicissitude in Ghana
Our Association’s attention has been drawn to a recent news report that Globacom – a telecommunications company and Nigeria’s Second National Operator – is contemplating withdrawing its business activities from Ghana for reasons of sabotage and vandalism of its infrastructure and challenges to its investment believed to be perpetrated by some local interests in that country.
The report has been confirmed by Globacom Nigeria Ltd.
We are concerned about the fundamental issue of the responsibilities of Nigeria to the investment of its citizens who have, against all odds, made a concerted decision to invest in other countries either as part of multinational consortia or as local companies of their host industry.
In an era of increased geo-economic co-operation amongst countries, this unfortunate development is beyond being a Globacom’s issue but has been elevated to being a Nigeria’s issue. Given the Africa’s litany of geo-political squabbles, it is imperative therefore that Nigeria must commence to give practical support and incentive to the investment of Nigerians who invest in other countries.
It is herby brought to public attention that the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, ATCON has begun consultation by canvassing detailed opinions on the business, regulatory and legislative dimensions of the matter with appropriate authorities.
The Association is about seeking the attention of the Honourable Minister of Information and Communications on this development and to requests that in the interest of pan-African development, she impresses on the Presidency the need to open up discussion with Ghanaian authorities immediately to ensure that Globacom’s investment in Ghana are supported and protected to avert the prospect of the withdrawal of its investment.
