MTN Nigeria, a leading telecommunications company in the country, has demonstrated its commitment to social inclusion and digital transformation through its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives. In 2023, the company invested N2.6 billion towards various projects aimed at empowering communities and bridging the digital divide. This marked a significant increase of 35.2% compared to the previous year, reaching over 58,000 individuals in more than 90 communities.
One of the key pillars of MTN Nigeria’s CSI strategy is the focus on ICT-enabled initiatives. Recognizing the importance of digital technologies in driving socio-economic development, the company has allocated a substantial portion of its budget towards projects that provide digital skills training, expand mobile connectivity, and promote digital entrepreneurship. By empowering underserved communities with the necessary tools and knowledge, MTN aims to create opportunities for economic growth and social inclusion, particularly among marginalized groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
The distribution of the 2.6 billion-naira investment reflects MTN Nigeria’s commitment to addressing key societal issues. A significant portion of the budget was allocated to health initiatives (47%), educational programs (31%), and economic empowerment projects (7%). Additionally, funds were directed towards orphanages, community sponsorships, and other operating expenses to ensure effective administration and implementation of the company’s philanthropic efforts nationwide.
Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, highlighted the company’s focus on national priority areas such as equity and drug abuse. The Anti-Substance Abuse campaign, spearheaded by the MTN Foundation, aims to reduce the rate of first-time substance abuse among youths aged 10-25 years. Through initiatives like ASAP, Y’ellopreneur, MTN Scholarships, and community development programs, MTN Foundation continues to make a positive impact on education, healthcare, and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
Collaboration with local stakeholders and global partners is a key aspect of MTN Nigeria’s CSI initiatives. By aligning its projects with national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), the company ensures that its efforts contribute to broader societal goals. Robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are in place to measure the impact of investments accurately and report on the outcomes transparently.
MTN Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and accountability in its CSI endeavors is evident through regular stakeholder engagements and rigorous reporting standards. By fostering partnerships, driving digital transformation, and addressing critical societal issues, MTN continues to play a significant role in advancing social inclusion and driving positive change across Nigeria.