Data Protection Takes Center Stage at MTN’s Engagement with Rome Business School Students
MTN Nigeria recently hosted students from Rome Business School, a globally recognized institution for innovative and industry-focused business education, at its headquarters. This study trip, aligned with Rome Business School’s mission to develop global business leaders, aimed to explore sustainability-led practices in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
“The telecommunications sector has revolutionized the Nigerian economy, creating an entirely new economy and opening up income opportunities for millions of Nigerians,” Friday Okuwe, Senior Manager, Brand, Media, & Sponsorships, emphasised during his keynote address.
“Today, telecoms is bridging the literacy gap, connecting Nigerians, and linking the country to the global village.”
Okuwe also shared MTN’s evolution from a traditional telco to a cutting-edge tech company, driven by changing consumer needs and landscapes.
“As the landscape shifts and consumer needs evolve, we adapt. The MTN of 2001 is vastly different from today’s MTN – we’ve transformed into a technology company, recognizing technology’s pivotal role in every aspect of life.” He added.
Speaking on the evolving business landscape at MTN Nigeria, Edith Leblanc, Rome Business School student with experience working at the European Union for digital transformation, inquired about MTN’s data protection and privacy laws using the European telecom industry as a case study.
Okuwe explained that data protection is a top priority for MTN, with a comprehensive framework in place to safeguard customer data.
“Data protection and data privacy laws are growing in Nigeria. It’s a law of life that we live and every employee at MTN undergoes a course on data privacy and data protection. These frameworks are in place to ensure the 79 million subscribers we cater to are adequately protected.” He said.
Also Read: Why MTN is Building West Africa’s Largest Data Centre
Okuwe also noted that Nigeria has made significant strides in data protection, with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023 establishing a legal framework for personal data regulation. This law replaces the Nigerian Data Protection Regulations (NDPR) 2019 and aims to safeguard citizens’ rights to privacy.
The discussion also touched on the company’s commitment to its employees, where Vivian Omoregbe, Manager, Employee Experience and Change at MTN Nigeria, cited the Employee Value Proposition (EVP) launched in 2021.
“Our EVP is a promise from the brand to our employees in return for their commitment to the brand,” Omoregbe explained.
“We prioritise employee growth, well-being, and satisfaction, recognizing their pivotal role in driving our success.”
The event underscored MTN’s commitment to driving shared value and driving industry leading connectivity operations in Nigeria through innovative digital solutions.
