Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised MTN Nigeria for its substantial contribution to the federal government’s Food Support Programme and its donation of 4,600 digital devices to schools across the country.
This gesture, which includes a N1 billion donation and the provision of 4,600 digital devices, is seen as a significant step in addressing economic challenges and improving education in Nigeria.
On Friday, Vice President Shettima received Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman of MTN Nigeria, at the Presidential Villa. During the visit, Shettima lauded MTN for its generous donation and commitment to Nigeria’s development.
The N1 billion donation is earmarked for the Federal Government’s Food Support Programme, aimed at assisting the most vulnerable populations facing economic hardship.
Meanwhile, the 4,600 digital devices, which are pre-installed with the U-lesson application, will be distributed to secondary schools across the country.
Shettima expressed his pride in MTN’s stability and dedication, noting, “We have witnessed a couple of changes in the industry, but you have remained stable and strong.
“On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I want to sincerely thank you for this gesture.”
He highlighted the importance of MTN’s support in helping the government tackle current challenges and in supporting the educational needs of the poor and vulnerable.
The Vice President assured that the funds and devices will be managed effectively.
The N1 billion will be administered by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
According to him, this will ensure that the aid reaches those who need it most and is used to alleviate food insecurity among Nigeria’s disadvantaged populations.
Regarding the digital devices, Shettima indicated that MTN will work with his office to establish the criteria for distribution and ensure that the devices are provided to secondary schools in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The devices, pre-loaded with educational software, are intended to enhance digital literacy and support students’ access to quality education.
In his address, Shettima urged other companies in Nigeria to follow MTN’s example in corporate social responsibility.
He emphasised that such contributions are vital for supporting government efforts and addressing societal challenges.
“We are grateful for MTN’s support and hope other companies will also contribute to the nation’s progress,” Shettima said.
He assured the business community that the Tinubu administration is pro-business and is working on policies that will soon have a positive impact.
Earlier, Ernest Ndukwe spoke about MTN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development goals. He praised the federal government’s initiatives aimed at reviving the country’s economy through various programs.
Ndukwe reaffirmed MTN’s dedication to the AMBITION 2025 strategy, which focuses on aligning the company’s objectives with national development priorities.
The N1 billion donation, according to Ndukwe, is intended to assist the most vulnerable and underserved communities.
“We want to ensure that no one is left behind through increased collaboration and partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria,” he explained.
Ndukwe also expressed hope that the donated digital devices will help improve digital literacy among students, fostering creativity, analytical thinking, adaptability, and better access to information in science and technology.
