From a single sewing machine in a dining room to a global supplier, Yemi Chukwurah’s (CEO, Seams & Stitches) business journey is a testament to the power of strategic corporate partnerships. In this session from the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Chukwurah shares her insights on the local content ecosystem, reflecting on how collaborative support – specifically from MTN Nigeria – transformed her business and enabled her to scale impact within the Nigerian economy.
When you look at this ecosystem, partnership and collaboration stand out. Although MTN Nigeria originated as a South African company, it is important to highlight that MTN is thoroughly Nigerian today. This is due to its commitment to local content, Nigerian leadership, and a predominantly Nigerian workforce, which have made it an authentic Nigerian business.
Even though the brand originated elsewhere in Africa, its integration with Nigerian talent and unity has fueled phenomenal success. Looking across the broader ecosystem, the spin-offs and the scale of impact created across the economy are truly admirable. Thank you very much.
They have imported our shirts coming to inspect our factory before we ship products from Nigeria to America. Delegates came to inspect my facility, and after reviewing my samples, they confirmed that our quality matches theirs. As a result, they are eager to partner with us in Nigeria and import directly from us to America.
That is a testament to the level of empowerment MTN offers its suppliers. Furthermore, the Lagos Business School (LBS) authored a case study on my business that is now taught in classes. I started this journey with just a single sewing machine in my dining room. Today, I employ over 115 tailors and engage up to 2,000 contractors during peak demand.
To me, that represents real scale. Whether handling apparel for global organisations like the United Nations or local corporate orders, everything is now produced locally in Nigeria. When it comes to championing local content and scaling indigenous suppliers, I know of no other company that compares to MTN Nigeria, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
- Excerpts from Yemi Chukwurah’s session during the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce August Breakfast Forum, commemorating MTN Nigeria’s 25th Anniversary, on Thursday, August 27, 2026.