Summary
MTN is the largest mobile network telecom operator in Nigeria. In a strategic partnership with IFC's Nigeria2Equal (N2E) program, it emerged as a leading gender equality champion, leapfrogging from a previous ranking of number thirteen to become the top‑performing company amongst the thirty most capitalized companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange when it comes to providing equal opportunities for women in the workplace, based on a rigorous third‑party assessment by Equileap and independent verification by PwC.
This case study tracks how.
Building on its earlier work as an inclusive company that emphasized equal opportunities from the top, MTN accelerated its efforts under the N2E program. It made specific commitments to strengthen women's participation in leadership, employment and entrepreneurship, and advocate more broadly for gender equality. IFC played a catalytic role, helping MTN make data‑driven, informed decisions; providing exposure
to global best practices in gender‑smart policies; and helping the firm aspire for global certification and recognition. With IFC's advisory support, MTN undertook EDGE assessment and certification. Its dedication earned MTN EDGE MOVE certification — the second rung of the three-level certification, making it only the second organization in Sub-Saharan Africa to achieve this level.
The case study shows how a company with strong leadership commitment and buy-in, and a willingness to undertake a data-driven diagnostic and independent assessment, can significantly improve performance and establish itself as a trailblazer in the market.
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