In keeping with its mission to raise awareness of mental health issues, 9mobile hosted an enlightening virtual X-space event on the subject: “Navigating Mental Health in a Digital World” on X-space in commemoration of World Mental Health Day.

This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” shines a spotlight on the importance of ensuring universal access to mental health care. To drive this critical conversation forward, our esteemed lineup of speakers included: Dr. Olalekan Makinde, renowned Consultant and expert in Community/Public Health, Dr. Alexandra Odiari, a distinguished specialist in mental health, Dr. Olayinka Jibunoh, a seasoned Psychologist and Mental Health Advocate and Amara Esomchi, a Certified Mental Health Therapist and Counselor.

These health experts tackled the pressing issue of mental health stigma and explored the vital role social media can play in championing mental wellness.

Commenting on the initiative, Chineze Amanfo, 9mobile’s PR Lead, stated: “We’re honored to support this vital conversation. Mental health awareness is increasingly essential in today’s digital landscape, where connectivity can sometimes mask feelings of isolation. Through platforms like X-space and beyond, 9mobile is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and discussions.”

“One of the core pillars of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is health and we have made targeted interventions in the health sector. Looking ahead, we are committed to continuing this trajectory, leveraging every opportunity to drive meaningful impact through our direct efforts,” Amanfo stated.

Dr. Olalekan Makinde stated, “Health is a priceless asset, and it is one we cannot afford to take lightly. He emphasized that people must put a premium on their mental health. In the fast-moving tech world, caring for your mind is as important as advancing your career or business.

“Mental well-being is the foundation for lasting success and fulfillment.”

Therapist and Mental Health Advocate, Amara Esomchi, further emphasized, “Health is all-encompassing—it is not just about physical well-being but also mental and emotional balance”.

She discussed the crucial role of social connections in maintaining this balance. “On one hand, strong social bonds can provide support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.

“On the other hand, if not carefully managed, unhealthy relationships or social pressures can lead to stress and anxiety. It is essential to build meaningful connections that nurture your well-being, both personally and professionally.”

Dr. Alexandra Odiari stressed the importance of treating mental health with the same attention as physical health. “By normalizing conversations around mental wellness and eliminating stigmatization, we create a society where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.”

Dr. Olayinka Jinunoh noted that in today’s digital age, we must be mindful of how we engage with social media and learn to practice digital hygiene. “The importance of social media detox is a way to maintain mental clarity and well-being.

“Constant online engagement can lead to stress and taking intentional breaks allows the mind to reset, stay focused, and remain mentally alert. It is essential to find balance and practice self-care in our digital habits.

The telecommunications company understands the importance of mental health in the fast-paced, technologically driven world of today, just as much as physical health.

Hence the need to raise awareness on the value of mental health among its subscribers, employees, and the larger Nigerian community by facilitating the conversations on online platforms such as X-space.

Following the completion of its award ceremony in Enugu and Abuja, MTN Foundation has hosted the final ceremony in Lagos, awarding over 1000 students with scholarships and grants.

The Scholarship is an annual programme under the Foundation’s Youth Development portfolio, that recognizes and rewards high-performing students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses, and Blind students in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.

The Top 10 scoring candidates of the Unified Matriculation Examination (UTME) also benefit from this programme.

In attendance was the Hon. Olatubosun Alake, the Honorable Commissioner of Innovation, Science & Technology in Lagos State; Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, Honorable Commissioner of Youth and Social Development in Lagos State; Dr Ogun Ayoteju, Deputy Director, Nigeria Universities Commission; Dr Benedictus Adekunle Adebiyi, Registrar, Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo State, Nigeria; Mr Ganiyu Oke Saliu, Registrar, University of Ibadan; Mrs. Babara Wey, Chairman, Anglo-Nigerian Welfare Association for the Blind (ANWAB) and a host of other notable dignitaries.

Speaking at the event, Registrar, University of Ibadan, Mr Ganiyu Oke Saliu applauded the Foundation for its efforts in the education sector.

He said “MTN’s commitment to empowering Nigeria’s youth is commendable. The Foundation’s scholarship program has positively impacted numerous students at the University of Ibadan, and we’re grateful for their support.

“Their reach extends beyond tertiary institutions to secondary schools, including my alma mater in Ikare, Ondo State, where they’ve generously donated essential infrastructure such as seats, lockers and laboratories.

“I congratulate today’s scholars and thank MTN for their unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s future”.

Expressing his support, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, emphasized the importance of the private sector’s commitment to nation-building and the Lagos State government’s dedication to quality education.

“In Lagos State, we have the ‘THEMES PLUS’ agenda, which represents an intensified focus in Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

“The acronym stands for Transportation and Traffic Management; Health and Environment; Education and Technology Making Lagos State a 21st Century Megacity; Entertainment and Tourism; and Security and Governance.

“We added the ‘PLUS’ to incorporate Social Inclusion, Gender Equality, and Youth Empowerment. Everything we are doing here today is part of our agenda in Lagos State. I appreciate the directors of the MTN Foundation for their efforts.

“My presence here today is a testament to our administration’s recognition of MTN’s contributions. I congratulate the scholars here today and thank MTN for being a partner in progress,” he stated.

In his remarks, Dennis Okoro, the Director of the MTN Foundation, reflected on the foundation’s impactful journey over the years. “For 20 years, MTN has been committed to fostering the well-being of the communities we operate in.

“As a testament to our dedication to corporate social responsibility, MTN is the only corporate organization in Nigeria that has an autonomous board heading its foundation and consistently drives the foundation’s initiatives with 1% of its annual after-tax profits.

“Our commitment to these deserving scholars goes beyond financial support, as we also encourage them to acquire professional certifications and acquire valuable skills during the duration of their scholarship,” he said.

The scholarships were officially presented to the recipients during the award ceremony in Lagos. Increasing the impact of this year’s award ceremony was the commitment of Women at Y’ello (W@Y), to sponsor the education of 12 scholars who are in their final year. Women at Y’ello (W@Y) is an initiative that unites all female employees of MTN Nigeria, fostering a supportive community and empowering women across the organization.

The newly awarded scholars will each enjoy a scholarship grant worth N300,000 annually till graduation as long as they maintain the required Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).

The scholarship covers tuition, book allowance and stipend. To date, MTN Foundation has awarded scholarships valued at over 2.5 billion naira to Nigerian students.

STEP, a leading initiative dedicated to empowering startups across Nigeria, partnered with StartupSouth9 to host the STEP x StartupSouth9 Event on October 3rd to 4th, 2024, in Port Harcourt.

Chisom Egwuatu, Project Lead for STEP, flanked by other members of the team

This collaboration aimed to strengthen the South-South and South-East regions by connecting startups with essential resources, including growth strategies, funding opportunities, and mentorship.

The event reached over 2,500 people, bringing together more than 70 speakers who took the main stage virtually and physically, participated in panel discussions, and led side sessions.

Over 15 workshops provided valuable insights and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs.

Notable participants included Jane Egerton-Idehen, MD of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited; Arthur Uche, CEO of Beyond Clothing; Abayomi Adebanjo, Regional Head at Main One; Ugochukwu Aronu, founder of Xend Finance; Yen Choi, CFO of Chiplab, Chisom Egwuatu, Project Lead of STEP and Adeshina Adewumi, founder of Trade Lenda, among others.

Oyinkan Akintola-Bello, Country Director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, attended virtually and took the main stage to share valuable insights into Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

In her speech to an audience of over 1,000, she encouraged attendees to leverage the knowledge and expertise available at the event, emphasizing the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem through the Startup and Talent Enhancement Program – STEP.

Oyinkan highlighted key aspects of their digital strategy, which focuses on collaboration with government and private sectors to improve infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, reduce barriers to digital innovation, develop a skilled digital workforce, and strengthen policy and regulatory frameworks.

The Startup and Talent Enhancement Program (STEP), a partnership between the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and IDEA Africa, is a key initiative aimed at bridging the gap between startups seeking talent and skilled professionals looking for opportunities.

The event featured a fireside chat on “Build for Growth: Growth Hacking Strategies for Startups,” anchored by Chisom Egwuatu, the Project Lead for STEP, and Adeshina Adewumi, CEO of Trade Lenda.

This session provided invaluable strategies for startups aiming to leverage growth hacking techniques to achieve scalability.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “Mapping Growth: Insights and Strategies for Building a Thriving Innovation Ecosystem.” Chisom Egwuatu discussed the roles of government, startups, Investors, established organizations, talent, mentors, research institutions and innovation hubs, in building a robust innovation ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa.

Beyond knowledge sharing, the event fostered robust networking opportunities, enabling startups to connect with investors, industry professionals, and fellow entrepreneurs.

These interactions are expected to lead to fruitful partnerships, mentorship arrangements, and potential funding opportunities, helping startups in the region overcome key challenges and unlock new growth pathways.