VP Shettima Commends MTN Nigeria for N1 Billion Donation to Food Support Programme and Digital Devices for Schools

 

Vice President Kashim Shettima (right) and MTN Chairman, Ernest Ndukwe at the company’s presentation of a N1bn donation to the Federal Government Food Support Programme, Abuja, August 2024. 

V ice President Kashim Shettima has expressed appreciation for MTN Nigeria's significant contribution to the federal government’s Food Support Programme and the donation of 4,600 digital devices to schools across the nation.

This generous initiative, which includes a N1 billion donation and the distribution of digital devices, marks a major effort towards addressing economic challenges and enhancing education in Nigeria.

On Friday, Vice President Shettima welcomed Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman of MTN Nigeria, at the Presidential Villa. During the meeting, Shettima praised MTN for its substantial donation and ongoing commitment to the country’s development.

The N1 billion donation is allocated to the Federal Government’s Food Support Programme, which aims to assist the most vulnerable populations struggling with economic hardship.

Additionally, the 4,600 digital devices, pre-installed with the U-lesson application, are set to be distributed to secondary schools across the country, enhancing digital literacy and access to quality education.

Vice President Shettima expressed his admiration for MTN’s stability and resilience in the telecommunications industry, noting, "We have witnessed various changes in the industry, but MTN has remained a stable and strong presence."

He conveyed his gratitude on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the importance of MTN’s support in helping the government address current challenges and meet the educational needs of the poor and vulnerable.

The Vice President assured that the funds and devices would be managed effectively. The N1 billion donation will be administered by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to ensure that the aid reaches those in need and helps alleviate food insecurity among disadvantaged populations in Nigeria.

Regarding the digital devices, Shettima mentioned that MTN would collaborate with his office to establish distribution criteria and ensure the devices are provided to secondary schools in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The Vice President also called on other companies in Nigeria to follow MTN’s example of corporate social responsibility.

Vice President Kashim Shettima (fourth left), MTN Chairman, Ernest Ndukwe (third left) and other MTN officials at the company’s presentation of a N1bn donation to the Federal Government Food Support Programme, Abuja, August 2024.