MTN Earns Recognition At NAE Technology Dinner And Awards Night

MTN Nigeria has been recognised by the Nigerian Academy of Engineering for its support of innovation, engineering excellence and technological advancement in the country.

The recognition was presented at the Academy’s 2026 Annual Technology Dinner and Awards Night held on June 24, 2026, at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.

The technology company was among organisations acknowledged for supporting the Academy’s innovation initiatives, including its annual Innovation Competition, which attracted 108 entries from across Nigeria this year. President of the Academy, Engr. Prof. Rahamon A. Bello said the Academy remains focused on helping innovators translate their ideas into real-world impact. “Our interest in them is not just in identifying what they have brought to us. It is our desire and hope that the Academy will be able to support and assist them to realise their potential through getting their innovations to the ready users and consumers in the future through angel investors,” he said.

MTN’s recognition came amid growing calls for stronger collaboration between industry and academia to drive research, innovation and economic development.

Speaking on the theme of the event, “From Resource Wealth to Knowledge Wealth: The Science of Nation Building,” Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer, ARCO Group Plc, Alfred Irabor Okoigun, said Nigeria’s future competitiveness would depend on its ability to build knowledge and innovation capabilities. “The future will not belong to nations that merely possess resources. It will belong to nations that possess capabilities. It will belong to nations that can create, innovate, solve problems and continuously generate value through knowledge,” he said.

The event showcased innovations addressing challenges in renewable energy, agriculture, environmental sustainability and waste management. Winners received cash prizes and mentorship support aimed at helping them commercialise their solutions, while the Academy reaffirmed its commitment to helping innovators commercialise their solutions and reach wider markets.

Industry leaders at the event expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between the private sectors like MTN Nigeria, academia and innovation-focused institutions would accelerate technological advancement and economic growth. They noted that sustained support for innovators will be critical to building a more competitive and knowledge-driven economy.