Airtel Nigeria launches a new Smartphone Financing Programme to aggressively bridge the digital divide. The innovation provides existing Airtel customers with a flexible and convenient payment plan to own 4G smartphones and drive wider digital inclusion.

Through this innovation, Airtel will finance new smartphones via its exclusive retail network, helping customers currently using 2G and 3G devices upgrade seamlessly to 4G connectivity. The programme will kick off with the Itel A50 smartphone, a reliable, high-performing device designed to deliver a superior mobile experience for customers across Nigeria.

Speaking on the launch, Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, said the initiative reflects Airtel’s deep commitment to empowering Nigerians with all they need to thrive in a connected world.

He said, “Connectivity is opportunity, and smartphones are the key that unlocks it. Through the Airtel Smartphone Financing Programme, we are enabling more Nigerians to access 4G technologies, experience the full benefits of digital inclusion without financial strain, and transform the way they learn, work, and live. This initiative goes beyond providing devices; it is about empowerment, progress, and building a truly connected future.”

To be eligible, customers must be Airtel subscribers and are advised to check their financing status by dialling *492# USSD code. Once approved, the final onboarding is completed at any Airtel-owned shop. Upon making the initial down payment of ₦19,000 or ₦21,000, customers will receive their smartphone and immediately gain access to fast 4G internet.

All payments, including the down payment and subsequent weekly instalments, will be made exclusively through SmartCash, Airtel’s secure mobile money subsidiary.

Also speaking on the innovation, Ismail Adeshina, Director of Marketing, emphasised the role of partnerships and technology in driving the initiative.

“Our mission is to democratise access to technology by removing financial barriers. With this programme, customers can now afford quality smartphones without the burden of full upfront payment. By leveraging SmartCash and intelligent scoring systems, we are creating a sustainable model for inclusive digital growth,” Adeshina added.

To qualify, customers must be active on the Airtel network for at least three months, have a registered SmartCash account, a valid form of identification such as NIN, Voter’s Card, or Driver’s Licence, and provide consent for data processing by Intelligra for eligibility verification.

The Airtel Smartphone Financing Programme aligns with Airtel Nigeria’s broader goal of advancing financial inclusion, digital empowerment, and innovation across the country.

MTN Nigeria has launched VibeTide, a nationwide festive campaign created to power the vibrant festive season in the country.

The initiative blends culture, lifestyle, music, generosity, and digital engagement into one connected celebration that brings millions of Nigerians together across cities and communities.

The festive season is widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s most energetic and emotionally significant periods. It is a season defined by homecomings, concerts, nightlife, cultural festivals, travel, and family gatherings, and MTN is stepping fully into this national mood with an experience built around surprises, joy, connection, and community.

The campaign came alive this morning with Y’ello Santa, a multi-city activation that lit up Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Ibadan, and Enugu with surprises, gifts, entertainment, and heartwarming interactions.

Thousands of Nigerians were celebrated and rewarded as MTN teams visited high traffic locations to create spontaneous festive moments. The turnout and excitement across the cities reflected the early momentum that the season typically brings.

Speaking on the campaign, Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria, said VibeTide was created to elevate the energy and emotion of the season.

She noted that the initiative celebrates the joy Nigerians naturally bring to this time of year.

She added that the company aims to create moments that remind people of what it means to come together, appreciate one another, and share happiness.

She also stated that the excitement across the cities this morning shows that Nigerians are ready for a season filled with light and connection.

VibeTide will continue throughout the festive months with a rich mix of activities designed to meet Nigerians wherever they gather.

To support the influx of returnees and tourists arriving for the holidays, MTN would introduce integrated bundles designed with the I Just Got Back (IJGB) community in mind.

Many travelers rely on mobile data the moment they land, using it to navigate busy cities, book rides, find events, make cashless payments, and stay connected to family and friends.

These affordable and reliable options ensure that visitors can settle in quickly and enjoy the festive experience without connectivity barriers. The bundles would be available through the yellotide portal, regular channels and the MyMTN app.

The dedicated portal for the initiative serves as the digital gateway for the entire campaign. It provides customers with access to exclusive event tickets, curated experiences, giveaways, and up to date information on all VibeTide activities, giving Nigerians an easy and personal way to stay plugged into the celebration.

YelloTide will run across November and December and extend into early 2026. It combines on ground activations, digital engagement, talent showcases, and community focused surprises that reinforce MTN’s commitment to celebrating Nigerians and powering shared experiences.

Whether in bustling cities or in hometowns with family, MTN is placing itself at the heart of the celebrations, giving Nigerians more to enjoy and more to remember this festive season.

For more information, please visit https://yellotide.mtn.ng/

Six students have qualified for the grand finale of the MTN mPulse Spelling Bee following a keenly contested regional final held in Abuja.

The finalists — Samuel Babalola, Ojoma Gabriel Sylver, Favour Shuwa, Henry Elebiga Goodness, Levi Kelechi Ebisike, and Mary Chukwudi — will represent the North-Central, North-East, and North-West zones at the national competition scheduled to hold in Lagos.

The event, which drew participation from schools across the region, showcased the linguistic abilities of young Nigerians. The winners were selected based on their accurate spelling of complex vocabulary.

Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Segment Marketing (Youth, Women & Teen) at MTN Nigeria, said the company remains committed to empowering young people through education and technology.

“At MTN, we believe in the power of connectivity and technology to transform lives and build a brighter future,” Salako said.

One of the finalists, Mary Chukwudi, expressed excitement over her qualification, saying she had declared her intention to win before the competition began.

“I’m so happy. I’m proud of myself and can’t wait to go to Lagos for the grand finale,” she said.

The overall winner of the national competition will receive a ₦5 million educational grant, a laptop, a smartphone, and the opportunity to serve as MTN CEO for one day.

In addition, the champion’s school will benefit from a ₦10 million flagship project, including a modern ICT laboratory.

The MTN mPulse Spelling Bee is part of the company’s youth development initiative aimed at promoting academic excellence and leadership among Nigerian students.