MTN Nigeria Strengthens Commitment to Disability Inclusion

MTN Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to disability inclusion with renewed initiatives aimed at ensuring that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into the country’s digital and socio-economic ecosystem. The telecommunications company said the move aligns with its broader sustainability strategy and reflects its belief that digital access and opportunity should be available to everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations.

The company disclosed that its disability inclusion drive cuts across accessible products and services, inclusive workplace practices, customer engagement and partnerships with disability advocacy groups. According to MTN Nigeria, these efforts are designed to remove barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from participating fully in the digital economy.

Speaking on the initiative, MTN Nigeria’s management noted that inclusion is a core value of the organisation and a critical component of its Environmental, Social and Governance framework. The company said it recognises that persons with disabilities represent a significant segment of the population whose potential often remains untapped due to limited access to enabling infrastructure and opportunities.

As part of the inclusion push, MTN Nigeria has continued to enhance the accessibility of its customer touchpoints. Selected service centres have been adapted to accommodate customers with physical impairments, while staff are being trained to better engage with customers who have hearing, visual or mobility challenges. The company said these measures are intended to improve service experience and promote dignity and independence for all customers.

MTN Nigeria also highlighted improvements in its digital platforms to support accessibility features. These include compatibility with screen readers, simplified navigation and design adjustments aimed at making digital services easier to use for persons with visual and cognitive impairments. The company said it is working to ensure that its mobile applications and online platforms meet global accessibility standards.

In the workplace, MTN Nigeria said it is taking deliberate steps to foster an inclusive environment for employees with disabilities. The company noted that its recruitment and talent development processes are being reviewed to eliminate bias and promote equal opportunity. It added that reasonable workplace accommodations are provided to enable employees with disabilities to perform optimally.

According to the company, diversity and inclusion training programmes have been rolled out across various levels of the organisation to build awareness and encourage empathy among staff. These programmes are aimed at changing perceptions, promoting respect and ensuring that inclusion is embedded in everyday business practices.

MTN Nigeria’s disability inclusion efforts also extend beyond its operations into the wider community. Through partnerships with non-governmental organisations and disability-focused groups, the company has supported initiatives that provide digital skills training, assistive technologies and empowerment programmes for persons with disabilities.

The telecoms firm said access to digital skills is particularly important in an increasingly technology-driven economy, where connectivity and digital literacy are key to employment and entrepreneurship. By equipping persons with disabilities with relevant skills, MTN Nigeria said it is helping to reduce inequality and expand economic participation.

Industry stakeholders have commended MTN Nigeria’s approach, noting that corporate leadership is essential in advancing disability inclusion in Nigeria. They said while policies exist to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, implementation remains a challenge, making private sector interventions crucial.

Experts also pointed out that inclusive design benefits not only persons with disabilities but the wider population, including the elderly and those with temporary impairments. They said companies that prioritise accessibility are better positioned to reach broader markets and build long-term customer loyalty.

MTN Nigeria stated that its inclusion strategy is guided by continuous engagement with persons with disabilities to better understand their needs and experiences. The company said feedback from these engagements helps shape product development, service delivery and internal policies.

The company added that disability inclusion is not a one-off project but an ongoing journey that requires sustained investment, innovation and collaboration. It pledged to continue reviewing its practices and scaling initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusion.

As Nigeria pushes for greater digital inclusion and economic growth, MTN Nigeria said its efforts demonstrate how technology companies can play a vital role in bridging gaps and empowering underserved communities. The company maintained that true progress can only be achieved when everyone is given the opportunity to connect, contribute and thrive.

With its renewed focus on disability inclusion, MTN Nigeria has positioned itself as a key advocate for equal access and participation, reinforcing the message that inclusion is not just a social responsibility but a business imperative in a diverse and evolving society.