Race for Ndukwe’s Job

At last count, a dozen qualified Nigerians have jumped into race to fill Ernest Ndukwe’s seat who is due to bow out gracefully in April, when he must have completed his legendary two term 10-year tenure as executive vice chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC).
Ndukwe, a man of uncommon achievements etched his name in the history books for the tremendous growth and transformation of the telecom industry and for transforming NCC into a transparent and open agency.
He was at the helm during the first digital mobile license spectrum auction, which was acknowledged internationally as a resounding success.
This auction process and other licensing initiatives that followed have led to a vibrant liberalised market and the rapid network growth that has been associated with the Nigerian Telecommunications Industry within the past nine years.
Having come, seen and delivered, Ndukwe is leaving a big shoe, the contenders and pretenders to his seat must struggle to fit in.
It is important therefore to find a square peg that will fit into the square hole Ndukwe will be leaving to allow for continuity.
The next occupant of the position of the EVC of NCC must be a proven technocrat and a man or woman of integrity.
The position of the EVC must not be sacrificed on the altar of ethnic of political jingoism. As matter of fact, politicians must not be allowed to derail the unmatched progress recorded by Nigeria for the whole of African continent and indeed the developing world.
It is important to appoint a man or woman that has passion for the industry and without unquestionable character.
Government should as a matter of urgency constitute a selection committee to screen all the applicants.
Part of the requirements for the post should a sound academic background in telecom engineering; not less than 5 years experience in the management of a telecom company; must be an advocate of pan-industry issues, must be independent of ideas, must have international exposure, good track record in the management of public fund; ability to create team player; ability to drive change and guide government in policy formulation and implementation, among others.