MTN Group has reiterated its unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s digital evolution, disclosing it has invested over $10 billion since launching operations in 2001. This substantial investment, the telecoms giant said, has helped deepen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, drive financial inclusion, and improve nationwide connectivity.
In an official statement released over the weekend, MTN emphasized that despite persistent macroeconomic challenges—ranging from inflation and naira depreciation to forex scarcity—the Group remains firmly anchored in Nigeria’s long-term potential and the broader vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“As Africa stands on the brink of transformative change, the need for greater intra-continental cooperation is more urgent than ever. Our shared prosperity as a continent hinges not on individual success stories, but on our collective commitment to growth,” MTN noted.
Highlighting its strategic position as a bridge between two of Africa’s largest economies—South Africa and Nigeria—MTN announced it recently hosted South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, and his delegation at its Johannesburg headquarters. The visit focused on strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
“In this era of global disruption, Africa must act in solidarity, not isolation,” MTN stated. “We view our role not merely as a telecom provider, but as an economic diplomatic bridge—driving shared growth and opening up opportunities for millions across the continent.”
MTN Nigeria, the company’s largest operation outside South Africa, currently serves over 80 million subscribers, directly employs thousands of Nigerians, and indirectly supports hundreds of thousands more through its expansive value chain.
Beyond the numbers, MTN highlighted the social impact of its presence in Nigeria—improved digital access, broadened financial inclusion, and the empowerment of individuals and small businesses via technology. “This is the essence of inclusive development,” the company said.
However, MTN acknowledged that Nigeria’s complex business environment continues to test investor confidence. It noted that unlocking the full potential of Nigeria–South Africa economic ties will require resolving long-standing trade and investment barriers.
To this end, MTN expressed optimism about the forthcoming South Africa–Nigeria Trade and Investment Summit scheduled for later this year in Abuja. The Summit, it said, should not just be a diplomatic event, but a springboard for tangible policy reforms, reciprocal market access, and stronger institutional collaboration—fueled by active private sector involvement.
On the continental stage, MTN reiterated its belief in AfCFTA as a game-changer for African prosperity, but emphasized that the agreement’s success depends not only on tariff reforms or regulation, but also on robust infrastructure and digital connectivity.
“As a pan-African operator, we are laying the digital foundation for AfCFTA—supporting mobile connectivity, powering digital payments, and enabling cross-border enterprise,” the company explained.
To deepen integration, MTN is also focusing on cultural exchange through initiatives like the MTN Media Innovation Programme, which gives young Nigerian media professionals the chance to learn in South Africa. According to the Group, this helps foster lasting relationships between the next generation of African leaders.
