Celebrating Diversity: MTN Observes International Day of Persons with Disabilities

December 3rd is the International Day of Persons with Disability, dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disability in all spheres of society and development. MTN Nigeria commemorated the day with an event emphasizing the importance of leadership among persons with disabilities. This year’s theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future” focuses on promoting inclusivity and sustainability, aligning with global efforts to empower individuals with disabilities and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.

In his opening remarks, Karl Toriola, the CEO of MTN Nigeria, represented by Babalola Oyeleye, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, said, “MTN is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, and also creating a convenient and accessible environment for our customers, employees, and all 27 million Nigerians living with visible and invisible disabilities.

“We are committed to working with our ecosystem partners to collaborate and ensure that we continue to design purpose-based products for persons with disabilities. A lot has been done, but there is still much we can do. We will work together to make this happen.”

Delivering her Keynote speech, Dr. Toyin Aderemi-Balogun, Consultant, Disability Inclusion (Education), Mastercard Foundation, emphasized the importance of inclusion and having people with disabilities at every organizational level. “Currently, an estimated 1.3 billion people globally are persons with disabilities, about 16% of the world population. The unemployment rate is higher for those with disabilities compared to those without disabilities due to various barriers, such as educational, attitudinal, and institutional. Leadership of those with disabilities faces setbacks because of these factors,” she said.

An MTN staff, Chiamaka Ohalete, who is a member of the disability community shared an inspiring story about joining MTN Nigeria and the warm welcome she received from her colleagues. This narrative highlights how individuals with disabilities can be accepted and impacted when given equal opportunities.

The company’s initiatives reflect its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within its workforce and in the communities it serves. By amplifying the leadership roles of individuals with disabilities, MTN aims to challenge stereotypes and promote a culture of acceptance and support. In 2024 the telcos’ disability employment rate increased by +0.5% which is higher than many other companies in Nigeria.