In 2024, MTN Y’ello Care embarked on a 21-day journey of corporate volunteerism, touching lives and transforming communities across Nigeria. With a strong focus on education, this year’s initiative supported projects aimed at improving learning opportunities for underserved students. One of the standout interventions was the renovation and refurbishment of a block of classrooms at the Iwerekun Community High School, Lakowe, where MTN employees came together to create a more conducive environment for learning.
But this was just one of many initiatives. Y’ello Care 2024 also supported the KNOSK Charity Education Initiative (Study Better Packs) and organised vocational skill workshops, ensuring that students had access to essential learning materials and hands-on training to prepare them for the future.
Speaking about the 2024 edition, Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria, said, “Y’ello Care is the MTN Nigeria ecosystem giving back and contributing time, money, and resources to make a positive impact. Last year, we focused on education in remote areas, supporting three projects that will provide access to quality education for young Nigerians. And we are eager for the 2025 edition.”
A Legacy of Impact: Y’ello Care Over the Years
For the past 18 years, MTN Y’ello Care has played a vital role in improving education, healthcare, and economic empowerment in Nigeria. Each year, the initiative takes on pressing societal challenges, leveraging the power of employee volunteerism to create sustainable change.
In 2023, MTN’s Y’ello Care focused on digital skills training and financial literacy programs, ensuring that young entrepreneurs and small business owners had the tools to thrive in an evolving economy. Employees facilitated digital inclusion workshops, empowering hundreds of Nigerians with critical online and financial skills.
The 2022 edition, themed “Empowering Communities to Drive Economic Recovery,” addressed the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. MTN employees implemented financial inclusion programs across 33 states and the FCT, supporting individuals and small businesses with grants, training, and mentorship opportunities.
A Closer Look at the Lakowe School Renovation
One of the 2024 Y’ello Care flagship projects was the renovation of a school block at Iwerekun Community High School, Lakowe. Before the intervention, students faced harsh learning conditions due to dilapidated infrastructure. However, MTN staff came together to refurbish classrooms, install water supply systems, and set up an inverter, ensuring that students could learn in a safe and comfortable environment.
At the commissioning, Honourable Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, Commissioner of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, acknowledged the significance of MTN’s contribution to education: “The education sector worldwide thrives on collaboration and commitment between public and private partners. MTN’s generous contribution is truly recognised, and I express my deepest gratitude for its unwavering commitment to supporting education in Lagos State. This new facility will provide a conducive environment for teaching and learning, enabling our students to reach their full potential.”
Mrs. Fashola Adenike Olufunmilola, Principal of Iwerekun Community High School, also highlighted the impact of the project on students and teachers: “This classroom block is more than just a structure; it symbolises hope, opportunity, and progress. With this new facility, our students now have a conducive environment to grow, learn, and reach their full potential. Thank you, MTN, for empowering the next generation.”
Beyond Education: MTN Y’ello Care’s Broader Impact
While education is a major focus, Y’ello Care has also transformed healthcare and economic opportunities across Nigeria through critical initiatives such as:
Healthcare Interventions: Through the Y’ello Doctor Mobile Medical Intervention Scheme, MTN provided free primary healthcare services to individuals across communities. Since its inception, the initiative has impacted thousands of Nigerians.
Vocational Training & Entrepreneurship Support: In collaboration with partners, MTN facilitated skill acquisition workshops that enabled over 500 Nigerians—including women and persons with disabilities—to launch small businesses. Over 65% of participants actively applied their new skills, and 50% successfully started businesses.
Scholarships & Digital Libraries: MTN Y’ello Care has established digital libraries and awarded scholarships to students, ensuring that quality education is accessible to as many young Nigerians as possible.
Real-Life Stories: The Power of Y’ello Care
One of the most inspiring success stories from Y’ello Care is Christiana Agyei, a single mother of three who participated in MTN’s vocational training program. Through the skill acquisition workshop, Christiana learned soap-making techniques and received a start-up package. Today, she runs a thriving business, supporting her children and employing others in her community. Stories like Christiana’s highlight the life-changing impact of Y’ello Care.
As Y’ello Care continues to grow, MTN remains dedicated to expanding its impact, especially in underserved areas. By investing in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, the initiative is building a brighter future for Nigeria, one project at a time.