Over N32 billion has been used to impact the lives of Nigerians in over 3,500 communities in 570 local government areas across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the last 20 years by MTN Foundation.
The significant social investments by the organisation are part of its commitment to driving sustainable development across Nigeria, directly impacting around 33 million Nigerians, with advocacy and awareness programmes extending its indirect reach to over 90 million people nationwide.
The mission of the foundation is to consistently enhance the well-being of Nigerian communities by fostering investment, collaboration, and partnerships. Its core focus areas are capacity building, health, and economic empowerment.
The Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Ms Odunayo Sanya, speaking during an engagement with Fellows of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) in Lagos, emphasised that, “We can only do well as a group to the extent that the communities that we serve do well. If the communities we operate in are not thriving, it will inevitably affect our business.”
While many view connectivity in terms of data, voice, and digital services, Ms Sanya noted that MTN’s vision of connectivity goes further, enabling real change, connecting people to possibilities, and empowering them to achieve their aspirations.
“But for us, that connectivity is a reality that we are in a very privileged position to create change, to connect people to their possibilities, and just enable them to grab their aspirations,” she added, noting that, “When we talk about capacity building, it’s about scaling up, retooling, and education. Anything that helps people build their capacity.”
Addressing the organisation’s focus on health, Ms Sanya pointed out that while many corporate foundations restrict their activities to their core business areas, MTN Foundation’s approach is driven by national need.
“For us, it’s about what can move the needle for us as a nation and as individuals. That’s why we invest in health, capacity building, and economic empowerment, regardless of whether it directly relates to technology,” she stated.
The MTN MIP is a six-week-long programme spread across six months for media practitioners in Nigeria. It serves as a platform for media professionals to enhance their influence and impact through education and capacity building.
One of the highlights of the programme is training sessions led by executives within MTN’s ecosystem. These sessions provide participants with practical, real-life examples and case studies of successful initiatives, equipping them with valuable insights and strategies to enhance their professional careers.