As President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere leads Africa’s largest telecom market with a focus on collaboration and innovation. His tenure since 2023 has been defined by advancing Nigeria’s digital economy through strategic advocacy for broadband expansion, regulatory alignment, and infrastructure sustainability. Engineering FoundationsA graduate of Electrical/Electronic Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Emoekpere began his career at Linkserve Ltd, Nigeria’s pioneering ISP, where he engineered radio links for enterprises during the country’s nascent internet era. His technical acumen later propelled him to MTN Nigeria during its 2001 launch, where he oversaw the deployment of the company’s first base stations in the South-West and managed landmark projects like the Marshal Plan Site Build. Anchor Telecoms: A Hub of TMT ConvergenceIn 2005, Emoekpere founded Anchor Telecoms, a company that has grown into a pan-African leader in telecom infrastructure services. Under his leadership, Anchor Telecoms has expanded its vision to embrace the convergence of technology, media, and telecoms (TMT), launching strategic subsidiaries that drive innovation: MangoNet Integrated Services: A subsidiary delivering cutting-edge fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and wireless internet solutions, bridging Nigeria’s connectivity gaps. Anchor Digital Media: A media arm producing localized TV content and streaming services, amplifying Nigerian stories through technology-driven platforms. Today, Anchor Telecoms operates in 5 African nations, with ongoing expansions into Kenya, Ethiopia, and the UK. Emoekpere’s focus on TMT convergence ensures the company remains at the forefront of cross-sector innovation. Leadership at ATCONElected ATCON President in 2023, Emoekpere has prioritized: Policy Alignment: Advocating for Nigeria’s National Broadband Plan 2020–2025 and fostering partnerships to resolve infrastructure bottlenecks like right-of-way disputes. Sector Resilience: Balancing operator viability and consumer affordability through pragmatic tariff reforms. Talent Development: Collaborating with institutions like the Digital Bridge Institute to equip Nigeria’s youth with future-ready digital skills. Philosophy: Collaboration Over IndividualityEmoekpere’s leadership ethos centers on collective progress. “The telecom sector thrives when stakeholders unite,” he asserts. “Our goal is not just connectivity, but creating ecosystems where technology empowers businesses, media enriches culture, and infrastructure drives inclusion.” Innovations on the HorizonUnder his guidance, Anchor Telecoms is pioneering: AI-Driven Network Optimization: Enhancing service reliability and coverage in underserved regions. Digital Content Hubs: Partnerships to democratize access to educational and entrepreneurial resources. Sustainable Infrastructure: Green towers and energy-efficient solutions to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Beyond WorkA devoted family man and mentor, Emoekpere finds balance in reading, cycling, and supporting tech startups. His story reflects a belief in Nigeria’s potential: “When technology, media, and telecoms converge, we don’t just build networks—we build nations.”