Orange, French’s Largest Telco Operator, eyes Nigeria Market

France’s largest telecom operator, Orange, is set to extend its tentacles to Nigeria and South Africa.

Chief Executive Officer, Orange, Stephane Richard, who disclosed the news, said that the firm would make the move in a few months.

He said, “It could make sense to be in economies such as Nigeria and South Africa. If one considers there are things to do, the time frame I am considering is rather a few months than a few years.”

The Middle East and Africa, where Orange has a presence in 18 countries, is the company’s fastest-growing market.

Pundits are suggesting that the company may be eyeing mobile money market –payment transfers– in Nigeria.

That is because it makes the largest chunk of its revenue from payment transfers (Middle East), a key part of the group’s diversification into financial services, and Nigeria, which is the most populous black nation, is always an attraction.