Ahmad Farroukh, who was appointed CEO of Nigerian telecom giant Globacom in October 2024, resigned after just one month in the role, multiple sources close to the matter confirmed. While Globacom has not issued an official statement or communicated the resignation internally, several industry insiders suggest the decision was linked to significant challenges within the company’s organisational structure.

A mid-level manager at Globacom, speaking on the condition of anonymity, speculated Farroukh’s departure was tied to problems with the organisational setup. A top-level executive at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) who asked not to be named confirmed Farroukh’s exit but declined to share specifics.

Globacom did not respond to multiple requests for comments.

Farroukh’s abrupt resignation highlights significant internal challenges at the company, which has long been criticised for its centralised decision-making process. According to a former Globacom executive, the company’s founder, Mike Adenuga, is key to most decisions within the company. Adenuga has managed the telecom giant alongside his other business interests, including oil and gas, financial services, and real estate, with minimal structural separation between his other ventures and Globacom’s operations.

This approach has historically worked for the company but may have presented obstacles for Farroukh, whose experience at more structured organizations like MTN and Airtel might have led him to expect a different level of operational autonomy.

Farroukh’s departure also comes when Globacom is facing heightened regulatory scrutiny. In late 2024, the NCC’s sector audit revealed that over 40 million subscribers were not properly registered with their National Identification Numbers (NIN), violating government regulations. This led to a significant loss of market share, with Globacom’s share of the Nigerian mobile market shrinking by approximately 60%, leaving it with just 12%.

Globacom has also faced ongoing cybersecurity issues, including a high-profile hack in 2023 that exposed the personal data of millions of its subscribers. These issues may have created an environment where Farroukh’s leadership efforts could not make a meaningful impact quickly.

“A CEO leaving in one month is unprecedented in the industry. The NCC can investigate the reason for his exit. The commission can seek an explanation from the CEO, who is not obligated to respond, or from the company because this is about corporate governance, which the NCC Act covers,” said Ayoola Oke, a former Special Adviser to the former Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, Ernest Ndukwe.

Globacom’s leadership void following Farroukh’s departure will raise questions about the company’s ability to navigate its ongoing internal challenges and regain its competitive edge. Without significant structural changes, it is unclear how Globacom can address the organizational weaknesses that led to Farroukh’s exit.

TECH CABAL

Tragedy has struck the family of Olatunji Disu, the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following the loss of his son in a horrific car accident on Monday.

Although the circumstances of the accident that led to the young man’s death still remain hazy, reports sourced from Sahara Reporters which broke the story say family sources have described the loss as heartbreaking.

The report did not indicate when and where the fatal accident occurred and the circumstances surrounding it.

The family is also yet to issue any statement.

Disu recently assumed leadership of the FCT Police Command.

The news of his son’s demise has sparked an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, friends, and the general public.

Disu on Monday paid a condolence visit to CSP A.A. Sambo, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ushafa Division, who tragically lost his son.

During the visit, CP Disu expressed heartfelt sympathies and assured CSP Sambo and his family of the Command’s unwavering support during this difficult time.

Apparently the crash has not occurred as at the time of the condolence visit.

In the early days of his career, Disu had served as DPO in Ago Iwoye (Ogun State), Ikare (Ondo State), Owo (Ondo State), Elimbu and Elelenwo, in Rivers State.

He was also Officer in Charge of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and anti-kidnapping in Rivers State, Ondo and Oyo as well as second in command (2IC) State Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Rivers States.

He served as the commander of the Lagos State Rapid Respond Squad (RRS) between June 2015 and August 2021.

A member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the former head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Police Force in Nigeria, the position previously held by  Abba Kyari, Disu was also the Principal Staff Officer to the then acting Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun before his confirmation as substantive IG.

It is with great honor and humility that Tunde Olaogun announces his conferment as the Tayese of Oluwo, Iju-Ogundimu. This prestigious traditional title is a testament to his outstanding contributions, dedication, and commitment to the community.

The traditional council, in recognition of Tunde Olaogun’s relentless efforts and selfless service, has deemed him worthy of this esteemed title. The conferment ceremony, which promises to be a grand celebration of culture and tradition, is scheduled to take place in April 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Although the exact date of the ceremony is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to attract dignitaries, friends, family, and well-wishers from far and wide.

The event will be a momentous occasion, marking a significant milestone in the life of Tunde Olaogun and the community at large.

Tunde Olaogun has expressed his profound gratitude to the traditional council for this honour pledging to continue serving the community with dedication and humility.