CSR: Besides telecoms, we’re also keen on earning social licence —Airtel

THE  Group Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa, Mr.  Segun Ogunsanya,  has said that  besides being licensed to operate a mobile telecommunications company,  another top priority of the company is to earn a social licence through its different CSR initiatives, designed to positively impact its operating environments.

The Airtel boss stated this recently at a special evening, held to  engage key stakeholders, and  showcase various intervention projects of the telecoms company, and their impacts, in Lagos.

Some of the projects include the ‘Adopt-A-School’ programme, which provides access to quality education and infrastructure for underprivileged children: ‘Employee Volunteer Scheme’, an initiative where employees of Airtel commit personal funds to support the less- privileged in the society; the annual festive campaign, ‘Five Days of Love’,  and the renowned ‘Airtel Touching Lives initiative’, which supports the less privileged individuals and communities.

“It is not enough to own a licence to operate a mobile telecommunications company.  I strongly believe that we must earn a Social Licence to operate. Hence, we commenced this beautiful idea we named Airtel Touching Lives, which is more or less a special purpose vehicle with which we deliver multi-faceted assistance to people and communities across the country.

“We have constructed schools, sponsored surgeries locally and abroad, built houses, set up small businesses, and sponsored the education of indigent children. We have basically touched the lives of thousands of people directly and indirectly,” he stated.

The Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Carl Cruz,  stated that besides positively impacting its operating environment, the telecoms company is also committed to supporting government efforts; since ‘government cannot solve all problems by itself’.

Also speaking at the event, the  Lagos State Governor, Babajide  Sanwo-Olu, commended Airtel Nigeria on its CSR initiatives in the country, describing it as a dependable brand in the area of uplifting Nigerians through various philanthropic initiatives.

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