In a significant boost to the Federal Government’s efforts to address the nation’s challenges, Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended MTN Nigeria for its donation of N1 billion to the government’s Food Support Programme and 4,600 digital devices for distribution to schools across the country.
During a courtesy visit by MTN Nigeria’s Chairman, Mr. Ernest Ndukwe, to the Presidential Villa on Friday, Vice President Shettima lauded the telecommunications giant’s contribution, describing it as a testament to the company’s commitment to the progress of Nigeria’s economy.
“I am hugely proud of your (MTN’s) stability as a company and commitment to the progress of our country,” Shettima stated.
“We have witnessed a couple of changes in the industry, but you have remained stable and strong. On behalf of my boss, President Bola Tinubu, I want to sincerely thank you for this gesture.”
The Vice President emphasized that the donation will be carefully managed by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). He assured that the digital devices, which come pre-installed with the U-lesson application, will be distributed to secondary schools across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, with MTN working closely with his office to determine the criteria for selecting beneficiaries.
Shettima expressed confidence that this initiative would significantly support the government’s efforts to improve the educational needs of the poor and vulnerable in the country. He also urged other companies to follow MTN’s lead in corporate social responsibility, reaffirming the administration’s pro-business stance and promising that the benefits of President Tinubu’s policies would soon be evident to all Nigerians.
Earlier, Mr. Ndukwe commended the Federal Government’s initiatives aimed at reviving the nation’s economy and reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to supporting the administration. He noted that the donation aligns with MTN Nigeria’s “AMBITION 2025 strategy,” which focuses on partnering with the government to ensure that no community is left behind.
“It aims to support the most vulnerable, marginalized, and underserved communities, ensuring no one is left behind through increased collaboration and partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria,” Ndukwe explained.
He expressed hope that the donated devices would enhance digital literacy in secondary schools, fostering creativity, analytical thinking, and access to up-to-date information in science and technology.
The Vice President’s call for more corporate support underscores the administration’s reliance on partnerships with the private sector to overcome the country’s economic challenges, signaling a collaborative approach to national development.