Encomium
In a heartfelt evening of gratitude and reflection, the MTN Foundation hosted a dinner to honour five retiring members of its Board of Directors, individuals whose vision and dedication have helped shape the Foundation’s legacy of impact since its early beginnings. The event marked the end of an era for Prince Julius Adewale Adelusi-Adeluyi (OFR, MNI, LLD), Denis Okoro, Alhaji Muhammadu Danlami, Aishatu Pamela Sadauki (OON), and Tobe Okigbo, all of whom served the Foundation with distinction.
In her welcome address, the recently appointed Chairman of the MTN Foundation, Dr Mosun Olusoga, captured the emotions of the evening, admitting that “frankly, we are not ready to let them go yet,” before noting that governance structures require such transitions. She praised the retirees, some of whom have been on the board since 2005, for their remarkable service and described them as “legends” whose tenure helped define the Foundation’s mission and values.
MTN Nigeria Chairman, Dr Ernest Ndukwe (OFR), also paid tribute to the outgoing directors. He noted that several had been with the company for over a decade, helping to steer its CSR efforts with wisdom and integrity. “The new directors stepping into their shoes,” he remarked, “have a lot of work to do to fill the shoes of the past directors.” He thanked the retirees not only for their contributions to MTN but also for their service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, describing their impact as far-reaching and enduring.
As the Foundation bid farewell to these longstanding figures, it also announced the appointment of new board members who will now lead its next phase. The new board includes Dr. Mosun Olusoga, Chairman, Sir Etim Amana, KJW, FNCS, Independent Non-Executive Director, Mrs. Edith Ofili-Okonkwo, Independent Non-Executive Director, Dr. Reginald Okeya, Non-Executive Director, Mr. Emmanuel Ocholi, Non-Executive Director, Mr. Simon Aranonu, Non-Executive Director, Prof. Ifeoma Okoye, Non-Executive Director and Mr. Surajuddeen Yakubu, Non-Executive Director. Mrs. Odunayo Sanya continues as the Executive Director, MTN Foundation.
Since its establishment, the MTN Foundation has executed over 1,000 projects across Nigeria, touching millions of lives through investments in education, health, economic empowerment, and technology. The night served not only as a celebration of past achievements but as a reaffirmation of the Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development and community transformation.
