By Olabisi Olaleye

MTN Nigeria yesterday opened up on why it disengaged 280 employees from its workforce at the weekend, saying the exit would meet technology shifts and future business needs.

According to a signed statement by the telco’s Corporate Manager, Mr. Funso Aina, “MTN is a diverse community of committed change agents brought together in pursuit of a common goal driving growth and transformation by sharing our technology.

“Our people are our greatest asset. Each individual’s knowledge, experience and ideas contribute to our continued growth and improvement. As such, ensuring a healthy and highly motivated workforce is a priority for us.

“It is with this in mind that MTN Nigeria has implemented a Voluntary Severance Scheme designed to balance individual employee needs with business exigencies. The programme was designed drawing on feedback from employees and following consultation with elected employee representatives.

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It provides a financial incentive and opportunity for employees who have worked with MTN for over five years to pursue other career interests and personal ambitions full-time, while increasing opportunities for professionals with a fresh perspective wishing to join the MTN family,” he said.

Aina further stated that the  successful conclusion last week makes it possible for MTN to tailor the competence and experience base of its workforce to meet technology shifts and future business needs. 

“MTN is unrelentingly committed to Nigeria, and continues to execute its strategy of attracting, developing and retaining the best Nigerian talent. This is in line with the ongoing business transformation to drive sustained growth and thereby facilitate MTN’s continued role as a partner for progress and socio-economic development in Nigeria.”

Recall that MTN gave a May Day shocker when it laid off 280 workers, which represents 25 per cent of its employees owing to economic and operational reasons.