Jos: MTN Nigeria on Friday launched its transformative “Go MAD” (Go Make A Difference) campaign in Plateau State, aimed at discovering and supporting individuals who are driving positive change in their communities. 

The campaign focuses on bringing attention to the efforts of those making a real impact and providing them with the tools to succeed.

In an interview shortly after an event organised by MTN Nigeria held in Jos, Nkechi Fred-Onyia, MTN Manager for Sales and Trade Development in Plateau and Bauchi states, emphasised the core objective of the campaign, which is to reach out to individuals who are contributing to societal progress in both Plateau and Bauchi states.

“We want to use our platform to support them, acknowledge their work, and provide the necessary services that can help them achieve their goals,” she explained. 

She said through the campaign, MTN aims to not only identify these changemakers but also to enhance their access to data and connectivity, which are crucial in today’s digital-driven world.

She added that the initiative is also tapping into entertainment and creativity, especially in places like Jos, where the social scene had been impacted by past crises. 

“Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. As they engage with MTN services, they can leverage data for growth, whether it’s for social media influence, creative content, or expanding their business reach. MTN is ensuring that local talents—artists, influencers, and creatives—have the connectivity and reliable data they need to thrive in their respective fields,” Fred-Onyia remarked”.

Fred-Onyia highlighted that MTN’s commitment to addressing the challenges of network connectivity was a major factor in this initiative. “We’ve optimised our network to cover wider areas and brought our services closer to the people,” she said. 

She explained that MTN has expanded its presence across various local government areas, ensuring that customers have easy access to services like SIM card swaps, airtime sales, and customer support at nearby outlets. This approach reflects the company’s mantra: “MTN is everywhere you go.”

Three individuals who have overcome significant challenges to achieve success in their respective fields also shared their unique journeys, highlighting the role of determination, data, and connectivity in overcoming adversity.

Lisha Seleme Dachor, a 23-year-old beauty brand ambassador and content creator, captivated the audience with her story of resilience. Becoming a teenage mother at 17, Lisha faced societal stigma and rejection. 

However, she explained that she turned her painful experience into a source of empowerment, using her story to challenge the narrative surrounding teenage motherhood. She also revealed her current endeavour to set a Guinness World Record for the longest marathon painting of artificial nails.

Adukwu Emmanuel Ogbole, the Chairman and CEO of Mees Palace Football Academy, shared how his passion for sports led him to create an academy that has helped over 120 young people pursue education while developing their football skills. 

His academy, according to him, has gained recognition from international football scouts and clubs, and he credited MTN’s data services for providing the necessary visibility to attract global attention to his work.

Dikwa Suleiman Mohammed, a social impact investor and CEO of Green Sahara Farms, spoke about his journey from obscurity to global recognition.

He explained that despite facing early personal losses and starting without connections or funding, he persevered, ultimately gaining international acclaim, including a meeting with King Charles in the United Kingdom.

He emphasised that his ventures, including Africa’s Climate Adaptation Business Modelling framework, were built using data and internet connectivity, initially supported by MTN’s SME platform.

Each speaker reinforced the message that Nigerian youths, regardless of their background, have the power to make a difference through action and ambition.