MTN Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a workplace that reflects these values. The company’s approach is not merely a response to societal pressures but is grounded in the belief that a diverse workforce enhances innovation and better serves its customer base.
MTN’s vision for diversity is encapsulated in its “Live Y’ello” values, which emphasize inclusion, respect, care, integrity, and agility. These principles guide the company’s efforts to create an environment where all employees can thrive.
Esther Akinnukawe, Chief Human Resources Officer at MTN Nigeria, stated, “Our diversity empowers us while inclusion unites us to succeed in a fair and equitable environment.” This sentiment resonates with broader industry trends. According to a 2023 Pew Research survey, about 61% of employees believe their organizations have policies ensuring fairness in hiring and promotions, highlighting the growing importance of D&I initiatives in workplaces across the globe.
Paul Norman, Chief Human Resources Officer, MTN Group, emphasizes that “a diverse workforce isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about bringing together different perspectives and ideas, which is crucial for innovation. At MTN, we believe that diversity drives creativity, and creativity drives success.” This philosophy underpins MTN’s commitment to promoting D&I through various initiatives focused on key areas such as gender equality, disability inclusion, and generational diversity.
The ICT company recently achieved the EDGE MOVE certification, making it the first telecommunications company in Africa to receive this recognition. This certification reflects MTN’s commitment to addressing gender disparities and fostering an inclusive work environment. Notably, research shows that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to outperform their peers financially, underscoring the business case for such initiatives.
In addition to gender equality, MTN is actively working to support persons with disabilities (PWDs) by implementing guidelines that encourage disclosure and providing reasonable accommodations. The company collaborates with organizations like the Nigeria Business Disability Network to enhance its practices and policies regarding disability inclusion.
Generational diversity is another focus area for the telco. The company recognizes the value of maintaining a balanced representation across different age groups within its workforce.
By promoting age-neutral language in job postings and creating platforms for interaction among various generations, MTN aims to foster an inclusive culture that benefits from diverse perspectives.
The broader telecommunications industry is also witnessing a shift towards more inclusive practices. National telecom companies around the world are revamping their recruitment strategies to attract talent from underrepresented groups.
For instance, AT&T partnered with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to enhance workforce readiness among diverse candidates.
Similarly, Verizon has established Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that support employees from various backgrounds, creating a sense of community and belonging.
As the company continues its journey towards greater diversity and inclusion, it remains committed to measuring progress through standardized metrics and accountability frameworks. By setting short- and long-term targets for D&I initiatives, the company aims to effect meaningful change across its organization.
MTN Nigeria’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace reflects a broader recognition of the importance of these values in driving business success.
As more companies embrace D&I initiatives, the innovation potential and improved performance increase—a trend that MTN is keenly aware of as it navigates the complexities of today’s market landscape.
