Key Points From MTN Foundation, NPO’s Cocktail Event To Unlock Nigeria’s $1Trillion Philanthropy Sector

The MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Philanthropy Office (NPO), recently hosted a cocktail event at the MTN Rooftop in Lagos, Nigeria.

This gathering which is on the sidelines of the West Africa Deal Summit, brought together key stakeholders in the philanthropy sector to explore strategies for maximizing an industry valued at over one trillion dollars, specifically focusing on its potential benefits for young people in Nigeria. 

The event attracted a diverse group of participants, including philanthropic leaders, impact investors, non-profit organizations, diplomats and government representatives, all eager to engage in discussions about the philanthropy industry and its role in addressing pressing social issues.

In her welcome address, Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Country Director of the Nigerian Philanthropy Office, emphasized the importance of creating a robust framework that supports philanthropic efforts in Nigeria. “Our office is committed to creating a robust framework that supports philanthropic efforts and ensures that they translate into tangible benefits for our communities,” she stated. Ekiyor-Solanke underscored that effective partnerships are essential for driving legislative changes that can enhance the philanthropic landscape in Nigeria.

A core theme of the gathering was the need to focus philanthropic efforts on empowering young people in Nigeria. With approximately 70% of the country’s population being youth, stakeholders discussed innovative approaches to harnessing resources for education, entrepreneurship, and skill development.

 This focus is particularly crucial given the demographic trends and the urgent need to equip young Nigerians with the tools necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.

Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, reinforced the foundation’s long-standing commitment to social impact during her remarks. 

“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we recognize that collaboration is key to achieving sustainable development. Together, we can unlock the potential of private capital to create lasting change,” Sanya remarked. 

She highlighted MTN Foundation’s proactive role in various initiatives aimed at improving access to education and healthcare for young Nigerians, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a brighter future for this vital demographic.

MTN Foundation celebrates two decades of impactful initiatives across Nigeria. As part of the celebration, the Foundation recently unveiled its mission statement, 

which is  “to consistently enhance the well-being of our communities by fostering investments through collaborations and partnerships in capacity building, health, and economic empowerment.”

MTN Foundation’s commitment to partnerships for economic empowerment is evident not only in its recent events but also through its extensive history of collaboration with various organizations over the past two decades. By engaging with stakeholders from diverse sectors and focusing on initiatives that enhance community well-being, the Foundation aims to create sustainable change across Nigeria. 

Through collaborative efforts with the public and private stakeholders, MTN Foundation continues to embody its vision of a ‘Nigeria where no community is left behind’, reinforcing its role as a leader in corporate social investment and community development.