NIGCOMSAT CEO Calls for Financial Credibility in Africa

Jane Egerton-Idehen, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), called on leaders of African public institutions to prioritize fixing financial credibility before pursuing new funding for reforms. During an episode of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation Podcast, moderated by Fatima Kere-Ahmed, Acting Director at the Code of Conduct Bureau, Egerton-Idehen stressed that responsible management of existing resources is crucial for attracting sustained investment.

She highlighted the need for institutions to demonstrate accountability through transparent financial reporting and to show evidence of their capability to effectively utilize capital. Egerton-Idehen clarified that credibility does not solely rely on profit generation but includes factors like clean audits and a functioning structure.

She encouraged public sector leaders to proactively share financial information. Kole Shettima, Director of the MacArthur Foundation, also contributed to the discussion, noting that funders assess institutions based on trust, experience, and credibility, and must be willing to take calculated risks.