The show was unveiled recently at a media event held at the MTN Rooftop Event Centre in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, chief marketing officer, MTN Nigeria, said:

“Next Afrobeats Star is a bold initiative by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm, to discover and elevate the next global icon of Afrobeats. At MTN, we believe in progress, not just as a brand stance but a purpose.

“We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of background, location, or education, deserves a chance to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated. That is why we are taking this message to every corner of Nigeria, from the bustling cities to the most remote villages so that no youth is left behind. Because talent knows no boundaries, and neither should opportunity.

Today, Afrobeats is a global force, filling stadiums, topping charts, and inspiring millions. But the journey is far from over. The Next Afrobeats Star is our commitment to the future of this movement. It is a platform where raw talent meets real opportunity. Where the rhythm of Nigeria meets the reach of the world.”

A partnership between MTN Nigeria, Ultima Studios, and ONErpm, one of the fastest-growing music companies in the world, Ikenna-Emeka revealed that the winner will receive a $100,000 music deal made possible by a collaboration between ONErpm and U-Records.

The remaining four finalists will also walk away with music deals ranging from $25,000 to $75,000.

This effort, Ikenna-Emeka explained, aligns with the Nigerian Government’s Destination 2030 strategy, which aims to position Nigeria as Africa’s leading hub for creative excellence.

“Through the Destination 2030 strategy, the government is working to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for creative excellence by the year 2030. This vision is about more than economic growth, it’s about cultural pride, global influence, and national identity. It’s about creating an enabling environment for artistic brilliance, promoting diversity and creativity, and preserving the rich heritage that makes Nigeria unique.”

MTN’s partnership with Ultima Studios brings decades of production and talent development expertise to the show.

Known for their work on Project Fame and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Ultima brings its expertise in audio-visual production.

Femi Ayeni, CEO of Ultima Studios, explained the standout quality of the show.

“What makes this show different is because for the first time, we are having the producers, the beat-makers, actually recording original songs for the contestants for the show. So, they [the contestants] will be doing covers, but at the end of the day, their original songs are the ones that will determine how well they do on the show.”

The producers have been revealed as Andre Vibez, Puffy Tee, Sarz and P. Prime.

Oluwabori Richards, head of Content at Ultima Studios, explained that Next Afrobeats Star will feature both online registration and in-person auditions.

“After texting NAS to 13013, you get a text back with a link and a unique code,” he said. “That link takes you to the Next Afrobeats Star website, and then you enter your unique code and email address. Once you do that, you fill in your registration details.”

Richards added that the website hosts 10 to 12 instrumentals from the four producers.

“Download any of the tracks that you want, you make music on it and then you put it back on the website. When you do that, we have A&R execs from ONErpm who will be reviewing all the entries.”

He also noted that regional auditions will be held in Jos, Enugu, and Lagos, giving applicants the option to audition either digitally or in person.

“So once we collate all the entries, both regionally and on digital platforms, 300 people will be shortlisted to come to the trial. The trial is the first round of the show, and that’s the first time you will be performing before judges,” he said.

The competition is open to Nigerians and will focus not only on discovering talent but also on nurturing it through professional development, mentorship, and access to industry-standard resources. To apply, text NAS to 13013 using an MTN line. Visit  mtn.ng/NAS for more information.

This initiative underscores MTN’s commitment to customer-centricity, coming on the heels of recent adjustments to voice and data tariffs.

The MTN Mega Billion Promo is aimed at cushioning the impact of these changes while delivering visible and immediate value to subscribers.

“We understand the evolving needs of our customers, especially in the current economic climate,” said Dr. Karl Toriola, CEO, MTN Nigeria. “The MTN Mega Billion Promo is our way of giving back, providing tangible value, and demonstrating our unwavering commitment to their financial well-being. We remain customer-first in everything we do.”

The promo is geared towards producing 195 millionaires and a total of 5,460 winners within 90 days. Rewards range from daily cash prizes to a N5 million jackpot on weekdays and aN10 million jackpot in the ‘Saturday Mega Draw,’ creating a weekly climax of excitement.

“The MTN Mega Billion Promo is more than a reward scheme,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, chief marketing officer, MTN Nigeria. “It is a strategic initiative to empower customers through MoMo PSB. By leveraging MoMo for prize disbursements, we are not only facilitating winnings, we are also driving broader financial inclusion.”

Participation is free and open to all MTN subscribers aged 18 and above. Customers can opt in through the following channels:

•    USSD: Dial*900#;
•     MyMTN App: Use the Mega Billion section to opt in and track entries;
•     SMS: Text ‘MEGA’ to 900;
•     Web: Visit https://mtnmegabillion.comand click subscribe.

Once in, every recharge of N100 or more made via bank channels, VTU, myMTN NG, MoMo, USSD, or Logical Pins automatically qualifies the subscriber for daily and weekly draws.

Winners will be selected using a random number selector, based on accumulated points from recharge frequency and amount.

Daily excitement draws will be streamed live across Instagram Live, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live, ensuring transparency and daily engagement, and allowing participants to witness the selection process in real time. Winners will be notified through official MTN channels, and public announcements will be made only with their consent.

The MTN Mega Billion Promo delivers on MTN’s brand promise to provide customers with value, excitement and empowerment, especially in a time of economic change.

Diagnosed with autism, Kanye had found his voice in art, and his talent made history.

On April 2, 2025, World Autism Awareness Day, Kanye unveiled the world’s largest canvas painting by an individual at Eagles Square, Abuja.

His record-breaking achievement, part of the Zeebah Foundation’s Impossibility Is A Myth project, was not just a testament to his skills but also a powerful statement about inclusion, tolerance, and the need to support neurodivergent individuals.

Kanye’s mother remembered the early days of his journey.

“When we started, we were just looking for a way to make him happy,” she recalled. “Then we realised that when he painted, he became a completely different person.”

His older brother, Ozzy Tagbo-Okeke, had witnessed firsthand the impact Kanye’s journey was having on others. “It sent a really good message to other kids, and even parents of kids who have autism, that their child could do great things and make an impact in their society.”

For years, autism had been misunderstood, often seen as a limitation rather than a different way of experiencing the world. But Kanye’s story challenged that narrative.

His determination and talent broke stereotypes and showed that with the right support, autistic individuals could thrive in ways many never imagined.

Kanye’s Guinness World Record attempt was supported by organisations like the Society of Nigerian Artists, The Zeebah Foundation, a non-profit organization which aims to provide resources for autistic individuals and their families; the federal ministries of education and health, and corporate partners like MTN, which had recently launched an inspirational campaign called Go M.A.D (Go Make A Difference), aimed at inspiring people to make an impact in their communities.

Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, MTN chief marketing officer (CMO), spoke about how Kanye embodied the Go MAD philosophy. “MTN’s mission is to connect people all over the world. Kanye is connecting art lovers, and people all over the world as well. He is a true icon, breaking barriers and proving that nothing is impossible.”

While Kanye’s accomplishment was extraordinary, it also highlighted a larger conversation: the need for greater inclusion and support for individuals with autism. Many children on the spectrum struggled with access to education, creative outlets, and opportunities that nurtured their unique strengths. The Zeebah Foundation, through projects like Impossibility Is A Myth, aimed to change that by advocating for early intervention, specialised resources, and inclusive spaces where neurodivergent individuals could flourish.

Kanye’s Guinness World Record was more than an artistic milestone; it was a movement. It was a reminder that talent knew no boundaries and that with patience, encouragement, and the right environment, everyone can achieve greatness.

The 15-year-old autistic artist is set to unveil what is expected to be the world’s largest art canvas by an individual on April 2, 2025, World Autism Awareness Day, at Eagles Square in Abuja.

Kanye’s journey began at the tender age of two when he first showed a proclivity towards art. Despite facing challenges associated with autism, Kanye has flourished as an artist, earning accolades and the nickname “Young Picasso” for his exceptional abstract paintings.

The young prodigy’s attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record started in November. 2024, as part of the Zeebah Foundation’s ‘Impossibility Is A Myth’ project.

This initiative not only showcases Kanye’s extraordinary talent but also aims to raise funds for a state-of-the-art autism resource center in Abuja, highlighting the need for greater support and inclusion for individuals with autism.

Kanye’s story aligns with MTN Nigeria’s recent “Go Make A Difference” (Go M.A.D) campaign, which encourages Nigerians to take bold steps and create positive impacts in their communities.

Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, MTN’s chief marketing officer, emphasised how Kanye embodies the Go M.A.D philosophy: “MTN’s mission is to connect people all over the world. Kanye is connecting art lovers, and people all over the world as well. He is a true icon, breaking barriers and proving that nothing is impossible”.

The unveiling event will be attended by key dignitaries, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. This high-profile support underscores the significance of Kanye’s achievement and its potential to inspire change.

Kanye’s father, Tagbo Okeke, stressed that this record attempt goes beyond personal achievement.

“We started this awareness campaign to tell parents that no child should be left behind, that they are Fabulous, Autistic and Talented,” he said.

The family’s efforts, including opening a gallery in Abuja where art therapy workshops are conducted, demonstrate their commitment to supporting others on the autism spectrum.

As Nigeria’s youth witness Kanye’s remarkable journey, many are inspired to make their own difference, regardless of the challenges they face.

Kanye’s story proves that with determination, support, and the right tools – such as those provided by initiatives like MTN’s Go Make A Difference campaign – young Nigerians can achieve extraordinary feats and create meaningful change in their communities.

Kanye’s upcoming unveiling of his monumental artwork is not just a personal triumph; it’s a powerful statement about inclusion, perseverance, and the limitless potential of Nigeria’s youth to make a difference.

This initiative continues MTN’s mission to inspire Nigerians to take deliberate steps toward community development and digital empowerment.

Speaking with the press at the campaign launch, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, chief marketing officer of MTN Nigeria, shared the inspiration behind the Go M.A.D initiative;

“At MTN, we believe in driving progress, giving our customers the power to rise above challenges and create something extraordinary.

The Go M.A.D campaign is rooted in the belief that MTN data gives you the power to take on the world, to achieve the extraordinary, and to make a meaningful difference, in your community, your family, and your workplace. It’s our way of saying: we see you, we support you, and we’re here to make your journey better.”

Following exciting stops in Abuja, Enugu, Calabar, Ibadan, and most recently Benin, the campaign now heads to Aba with a promise to spotlight the city’s rich entrepreneurial spirit and creative talent.

In Aba, attendees can expect a thrilling fusion of technology, entertainment, and culture, with augmented and virtual reality zones, a flash mob, interactive games, special guests and inspiring real-life stories.

The event will also feature Kahoot trivia games, a Go MAD puzzle, a pledge wall, and giveaways of MTN-branded merchandise and digital devices.

A highlight of this event will be the Talent Showcase, dedicated to spotlighting Aba’s emerging creatives  and innovators. This platform provides local talents the opportunity to share their creative skills and connect with a broader audience.

Set against the backdrop of Aba ’s reputation as a powerhouse of local industry and innovation, the event will celebrate individuals, known as Go MAD Icons, who are making a difference through MTN Data by driving social impact, growing businesses, or sharing knowledge digitally.

These icons will serve as powerful reminders of what’s possible when creativity meets connectivity.

As with the previous activations in Abuja, Enugu, Ibadan, Calabar and Benin, cultural expression will remain central to the experience, with performances and installations that pay homage to the Igbo culture while encouraging young people to take positive action in their communities.

MTN’s Go MAD campaign is not just a series of events; it’s a national call to action. By merging storytelling, digital experiences, and grassroots inspiration, the campaign continues to engage Nigeria’s youth and highlight how technology can be a force for change

His victory didn’t stop at securing him the championship title, it also gave him an extraordinary opportunity—to step into the role of MTN Nigeria’s One-Day CEO.

On this exclusive day, MTN Nigeria executives and staff gathered to witness the leadership transition, celebrating young talent and the beautiful power of education and digital access. 

A Platform for Growth and Digital Literacy

Speaking on the purpose of the mPulse Spelling Bee and the importance of the one-day CEO event, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, noted the initiative’s impact beyond just a spelling competition.

“The MTN mPulse Spelling Bee is more than a competition; it actually is a gateway for opportunities,” Emeka stated. “This initiative, which we launched in 2018, is targeted at our very active teens within the ages of 9 to 15 helping them to gain the requisite skills required to excel in today’s world. And you would all agree with me that today’s world is quite complex. 

“The initiative is focused on making sure that the students are able to build self-confidence, improve their act of public speaking, build on their digital literacy, and, of course, vocabulary enhancement. Today, we celebrate Ikenna, and we hope this occasion inspires other young Nigerians like himself to dream big, think big, believe they can actually achieve their dreams and do this while going MAD with MTN data.”

She went on to highlight how education, when combined with digital access, brings limitless possibilities, emphasizing MTN’s focus on empowering young minds through technology.

A Young Leader’s Moment in the Spotlight

As the microphone was passed to the one-day CEO, Ikechukwu said: “Being here as MTN Nigeria’s CEO for a day is a dream I never imagined would come true,” Ikechukwu said. “Thank you, MTN, for making this possible. Leading the largest ICT company in Nigeria is not something 15-year-olds think about, but MTN is making it possible for every child out there to dream.”

He recalled his journey, stating that winning the mPulse Spelling Bee was about much more than just spelling words.

“It was about learning, adapting, and embracing knowledge,” he explained. “I believe data is power, and the more we learn, the more we can achieve. MTN has taught me the importance of technology and education working together. Through digital platforms like the mPulse website, students like me can access free learning tools, practice tests, and vocabulary resources that help us go beyond the classroom.”

Speaking about his preparation for the competition, Ikechukwu revealed the rigorous effort and dedication that went into his win.

“I had been preparing for a long time. I first attempted the competition in 2022 and didn’t make it. I tried again in 2023 but still didn’t win. That experience taught me perseverance. I knew I had to work harder,” he shared.

He described the focus required, including studying multiple booklets containing thousands of words and making sacrifices to concentrate on his goal. “It meant giving up a lot of activities to dedicate time to studying. Hard work, determination, and prayer especially made all these possible.”

A Message for the Future

As his one-day tenure drew to a close, Ikechukwu advised: “Go make a difference with MTN data. Use digital resources to learn, innovate, and grow. Leverage technology and never stop learning.”

Beyond the glitz of the one-day CEO title, Ikechukwu seeks to become a software engineer later in future and the mPulse initiative experience has further impacted his dream, making him more determined than ever to pursue his goals.

MTN Nigeria is ensuring youths have adequate access to the right tools, with unshakable determination that drives truly limitless possibilities.

Held in January 2025, the event celebrated Ikenna’s remarkable achievement, sealed with his flawless spelling of “Cornucopia,” and highlighted the school’s role in nurturing talent.

The visit was a celebration of excellence and innovation. Ikenna Ikechukwu won the MTN mPulse Spelling Bee title at the Grand Finale in Lagos in November 2024, and was awarded ₦5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an mPulse goody bag.

This time his school, Glorious Covenant School was gifted 10 laptops and 10 MTN 5G routers, a resource that promises to enhance the learning experience for all students.

“This competition celebrates hard work, talent, and determination. It’s about empowering our youth to dream big and achieve more. We’re proud of Ikenna and thrilled to contribute to the development of his school,” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, chief marketing officer, MTN Nigeria. “This event is about more than prizes; it’s about investing in the future of education and inspiring young minds. Ikenna’s success reflects the boundless potential of Nigerian youth.”

The visit not only celebrated Ikenna’s achievement but also raised awareness of the MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition, encouraging schools in the region to participate in upcoming editions.

Students and staff expressed their gratitude for the support and were inspired to strive for greater heights.

The excitement among students and staff was evident as they envisioned new possibilities for learning with MTN’s contributions set to revolutionize digital education at Glorious Covenant School.

As Ikenna Ikechukwu prepares to assume his role as MTN CEO for a Day, his journey stands as a testament to the power of opportunity and dedication.

Ikenna shared his gratitude and aspirations: “Winning this competition has been life-changing. I hope my story inspires others to believe in themselves and work hard.”

Aiming to strengthen its leadership team in the ever-dynamic telecommunications sector, MTN targets an exceptional service which will drive innovation.

Yahaya Ibrahim, who joined MTN in 2002, brings a wealth of expertise in network implementation and infrastructure development. Over two decades, he has contributed to MTN’s technological advancement, including overseeing Nigeria’s first 4G and 5G network deployments. 

As General Manager of Network Implementation since 2015, Ibrahim facilitated the expansion of over 37,000 kilometres of fibre-optic infrastructure, enhancing connectivity nationwide.  

His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from the University of Abuja and a Master’s degree in Telecommunications from Birmingham City University. 

Ibrahim has also completed executive management programmes at Lagos Business School and Harvard Business School. His technical acumen and vision are expected to push MTN’s network infrastructure towards greater innovation and resilience.  

Replacing Adia Sohwo as CMO, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka’s career at MTN spans over two decades, beginning as a Corporate Sales Executive in 2001. She has since held various leadership positions, including General Manager roles in Enterprise Sales and Marketing, as well as Chief Broadband Officer.  

Notably, Ikenna-Emeka helped in shaping MTN’s fixed broadband business, driving the adoption of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Fibre to the Home (FTTH) solutions. Under her stewardship, MTN’s fixed broadband subscriber base exceeded three million users, solidifying the company’s position as a leader in broadband innovation.  

Her academic credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Calabar and an MBA in General Management from the University of Manchester. 

A Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) and the Institute of Sales and Marketing Management of Nigeria (ISMMN), she has also completed executive programmes at globally renowned institutions, including Harvard, Stanford, and Said Business School. 

Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at Cranfield University, Ikenna-Emeka is also a prominent speaker and mentor in technology and leadership circles.  

Both Yahaya Ibrahim and Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka embody the expertise and leadership necessary to overcome the industry’s challenges and leverage emerging opportunities.  

MTN’s leadership change is designed to help the company remain a front-runner in delivering cutting-edge solutions that empower individuals, businesses, and communities across Nigeria.

This was stated by Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, the General Manager for Fixed Broadband at MTN Nigeria, in a recent interview with Arise TV on broadband connectivity in Africa’s most populous nation.

The Federal Government’s Broadband plan further specified the kind of internet speeds expected for both urban and rural areas; 25mbps and 10mbps respectively.

Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, noted that MTN Group’s Strategic Ambition 2025 is in close alignment with the Federal Government’s broadband targets. According to her, the technology provider’s intent is to deliver the right level of effective digital solutions to power Africa’s growth.

For Nigeria to achieve its goal of a globally recognised digital economy, Ikenna-Emeka, an internet connectivity expert, believes that the nation will require concerted efforts by the Federal Government, public and private stakeholders to boost broadband penetration. Ikenna-Emeka expresses optimism that with existing and new policies, the country is on the right path.

“When we look back at 2012 when we had just about 6 per cent internet penetration to where we are today, there is a significant improvement. As of the end of May this year, we had about 43.6 percent penetration. That is quite encouraging,” she says.

“A lot of work is still being done by the Federal Government and organisations like MTN to achieve the right levels of broadband penetration. The journey has already started and further collaborations will help us to get better.”

To improve internet connectivity in their locality, more than a dozen African countries have tested or are planning to roll out the 5G network in the next few years.

The next-gen network is predicted to contribute an additional $2.2 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2034. MTN, demonstrating its commitment to providing quality internet access to Nigerians, has laid the groundwork to provide the 5G service in several parts of the country in the coming months.

Enunciating MTN’s role as a driver of quality network across the country, Ikenna-Emeka says “Today, what is most prevalent is the fixed wireless access and that is the technology that is being adopted by all operators globally. That’s what we want to scale and accelerate in our drive to achieve broadband penetration.

“We’re very shortly going to launch the 5G technology. There is also a lot of progress we’ve made in fibre optics which is another prevalent technology. This, along with the 3G, 4G, and 5G networks will provide us with the ability to serve more market segments and more different sectors.”

The internet connectivity specialist further expounds that continued acceleration of internet access and the ability to adapt and expand on new technologies will bolster broadband connectivity that would match Nigeria’s growing population.

On the challenges of expanding internet connectivity in unconnected areas in the country, she says “Recently, we have received some legislation from the Federal Government to improve internet access in the rural or less connected states and that is critical in driving broadband penetration and connectivity.”

“One of the ways we are driving that penetration as a telco is by ensuring that we leverage on our mix of technologies. We currently have access to 3G, 4G, and coming soon, the 5G. And we are going to utilise this mix of technologies to deliver fit-for-purpose connectivity in different areas in Nigeria,” she adds.

Recently, international companies like Meta and Starlink have begun to adopt satellites in providing internet connectivity, and Africa has been encouraged to adopt similar technological measures to boost its developing digital landscape.

Ikenna-Emeka expresses belief that it speaks to the need for increased collaboration to drive penetration.

“It is quite interesting and speaks to the localisation of global trends – global digital transformation initiative. It’s a welcome development because to achieve the levels of penetration that we require, both at urban and rural levels, and to ride on the right levels of partnerships and collaborations, we will be requiring a mix of technologies. We look forward to seeing how that plays out in the future,” she says.

MTN Nigeria recently launched its home broadband services tailored to provide fast and reliable internet access in homes across Nigeria.

With the imminent commercial deployment of the 5G network, Nigeria will be hoping to expand its internet penetration and connectivity to achieve its ambition of a near-perfect digital economy in the next three years.

With this launch, MTN Home Broadband services will be available to millions of  Nigerian households.

With over 200 million people, Nigeria currently boasts of approximately 44.3 per cent internet connectivity, whereas other African countries, such as South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya, are at 68, 74, and 48 per cent internet penetration, respectively.

Global technology statistics closely link internet connectivity to sustainable economic growth rates. On average, the internet accounts for almost four per cent of GDP across the large economies that make up 70 per cent of global GDP. UNICEF also projects that nations with low broadband connectivity have the potential to realise up to 20 per cent GDP growth by connecting schools to the internet.

MTN currently connects over 70 million Nigerians (over 7% 4G population and 89.8 per cent coverage nationwide).

With MTN’s Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) and the latest Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Home Broadband services, millions of Nigerian households, with approximately 50 per cent located in rural areas, will have access to reliable and ultra-fast broadband services to enjoy unlimited data plans, ability to connect multiple devices and share data across remote locations for online learning, working from home, streaming, gaming, smart home solutions among others.

“At MTN, we believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life; hence our investment in industry-leading connectivity operations,” noted Hassan Jaber, Chief Operating Officer, MTN Nigeria Communications PLC.

“Customers now have enhanced access to dedicated 24/7 support and online channels to place orders for MTN Home Broadband with options for home delivery.  They can also enjoy truly Unlimited Data bundles, longer tenure data plans with the flexibility to share data with multiple users remotely as well as enhanced data subscription channels including myMTN App,” commented Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, General Manager, Fixed Broadband, MTN Nigeria Communications PLC.

MTN Home Broadband services are available nationwide.