Boardroom veteran Claude Ayo Iguendha has been appointed Board Chairman for Airtel’s operations in Gabon.

Announcing the appointment yesterday, Tiemoko Coulibaly, Airtel’s CEO for the Francophone region in Africa, said in a statement: “I am delighted with Mr. Ayo Iguendha’s appointment. Claudehas worked in the financial sector for the past 38 years and has an exceptional track record of accomplishments. I am confident that with his vast experience, he will guide our organisation in the right direction.”

Mr. Ayo Iguendha started his career as an accountantand rose through the ranks thanks to its irreproachable work ethic. For the past 11 years, he has served as the CEO of the International Bank for Trade and Industry of Gabon (BICIG).

Mr. Coulibaly added: “Airtel is committed to Gabon and is here for the long term. We firmly believe in the continued growth of our Gabon operations and we plan to invest $125 million in the country in the next three years. I am confident that the team, under Mr. Ayo Iguendha’sstrategic guidance, will help businesses and the youth access world class data services.”

With presence across 17 African countries, Airtel is the largest telecom service provider across the continent in terms of geographical reach and had over 63.7 million customers at the end of quarter ended March 31, 2013. Globally, Airtel is ranked as the fourth largest mobile services provider in terms of customer base.

•Photo shows Ayo Iguendha.