MTN Champions Innovation Through Diversity, Inclusion

MTN Nigeria said it is positioning itself as a leader in harnessing the power of diversity and inclusion (D&I) to drive innovation and success.
By embedding D&I into its core values and business strategies, MTN underscores the transformative impact of a workforce that reflects a broad spectrum of perspectives. At the heart of this effort are the company’s “Live Y’ello” values—principles of inclusion, respect, care, integrity, and agility. These values guide MTN’s approach to creating an equitable workplace that nurtures talent across all demographics.
Human resources officer at MTN Nigeria, Esther Akinnukawe, in a press statement, said, ‘Diversity empowers us, while inclusion unites us to succeed,’ emphasising the company’s unwavering focus on equity.
MTN’s efforts go beyond policy frameworks. As the first telecommunications company in Africa to receive the EDGE MOVE certification, MTN demonstrates its leadership in addressing gender disparities in the workplace.
Research underscores the importance of such initiatives, with gender-diverse companies shown to be 25 per cent more likely to outperform financially. In addition to promoting gender equality, MTN prioritises disability inclusion by fostering environments where persons with disabilities (PWDs) can thrive.
By partnering organisations like the Nigeria Business Disability Network, the company develops inclusive policies and accommodations that encourage PWDs to participate fully in its workforce.
Generational diversity is another pillar of MTN’s D&I strategy. Recognising the value of cross-generational collaboration, MTN facilitates interactions among employees of different age groups and integrates age-neutral practices into its hiring processes. This ensures that every generation contributes to the company’s innovative culture.
Globally, the telecommunications industry is embracing similar practices. Companies like AT&T and Verizon are driving D&I by forming strategic partnerships and creating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that foster belonging among employees from diverse backgrounds. These initiatives underscore the growing recognition that inclusivity is essential for organisational success.
Chief human resources officer of MTN Group, Paul Norman, aptly captures this philosophy: “A diverse workforce isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about bringing together different perspectives and ideas, which is crucial for innovation. Diversity drives creativity, and creativity drives success.”
MTN’s strategic focus on measurable D&I initiatives, including setting clear benchmarks for progress, highlights its commitment to long-term impact.