Dhaka: Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has dismissed recent media reports suggesting that mobile financial service provider Nagad is being sold for Tk 1,500 crore, terming them “baseless rumours.” Speaking at a programme at Dak Bhaban in Agargaon, the minister emphasized the need for Nagad to become more profitable, transparent, and competitive.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Mahbub Anam urged journalists to verify information with relevant authorities before publishing reports. He assured that the government remains transparent and open to the media. During the event, Nagad presented a cheque for Tk 18.57 crore to the Directorate of Posts as part of its revenue-sharing agreement.
The programme was presided over by Nagad Administrator Md Motasem Billah, with Posts and Telecommunications Division Secretary Bilquis Jahan Rimi and Director General of the Directorate of Posts Kazi Asadul Islam attending as special guests. The minister pledged government support for Nagad’s growth and emphasized the importance of public trust, accountability, and improved service quality.
Mahbub Anam highlighted the government’s satisfaction with receiving profits from Nagad, reflecting effective management and success. He noted that the government has been working on its commitments over the past six months, with Nagad’s profitability demonstrating efforts to enhance public institutions.
The minister pointed out the significance of digital financial services, stating that technology should benefit ordinary people, especially in remote areas and among small businesses, expatriate families, students, and women entrepreneurs. He stressed the need for greater competition, innovation, and customer-friendly services in the MFS sector to boost the country’s economic growth.
Efforts are underway to integrate Nagad with the Directorate of Posts, modernizing postal services through digital and financial innovations. Bangladesh Post now offers cost-effective parcel delivery services nationwide, making logistics more affordable.
Addressing past criticism of Nagad, the minister acknowledged the negative perceptions created by some previous activities. He called for enhanced monitoring by the Directorate of Posts to ensure Nagad’s transparency and accountability, fostering trust as a financial institution.
Mahbub Anam underscored the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the private sector to maximize state assets and improve public services. He expressed optimism about Nagad’s growing revenue contribution, facilitated by improved technology and governance.
With around 9 crore registered customers and nearly 3 crore active users, Nagad processes monthly transactions worth Tk 35,000-40,000 crore, according to the minister. He highlighted the potential for expansion through software infrastructure upgrades. The ministry is also exploring ways to modernize over 9,000 post offices, especially in rural areas where they serve as primary government service points.
The minister noted that Nagad has paid approximately Tk 313 crore in VAT and taxes this year. The government’s policy aims to transform loss-making public enterprises into profitable institutions.