MTN Nigeria Targets Digital Supply Chain With AI, Automation

MTN Nigeria has called for greater adoption of artificial intelligence, automation and big data analytics to improve supply chain efficiency, strengthen supplier relationships and drive sustainable business growth.

The company made the call at its 2026 Global Sourcing and Supply Chain (GSSC) Supplier Forum, which brought together more than 500 suppliers and business partners physically and virtually to discuss technology-driven transformation in supply chain management.

The forum, themed “Supplier Collaboration in a Digital Age: Leveraging Automation, AI & Big Data Analytics,” provided a platform for engagement, knowledge sharing and alignment on emerging technologies and best practices in supplier management.

Speaking at the event, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Financial Officer, Modupe Kadri, officially opened the forum, setting the tone for discussions on digital innovation, operational efficiency and sustainable value creation.

In his keynote address, the General Manager, Global Sourcing and Supply Chain, MTN Nigeria, Adeola Oduntan, stressed the importance of strong supplier relationships in achieving operational excellence and sustainable growth.

“Our suppliers remain critical partners in our journey towards delivering operational excellence and sustainable growth. Through collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of emerging technologies, we can build a supply chain ecosystem that is agile, resilient, and equipped for the future,” he said.

Oduntan also highlighted the need to align suppliers’ capabilities with the company’s strategic priorities, noting that automation, artificial intelligence and data analytics could transform supply chain operations and improve service delivery.

Presentations by MTN’s Financial Operations, Treasury, HR Medical, Tax and Legal teams also provided suppliers with updates on business processes, compliance requirements and areas for improved collaboration.

The HR Medical team outlined health and wellness expectations for suppliers, while the Tax team addressed regulatory compliance, tax administration and reconciliation.

The Legal team discussed contract governance, compliance obligations and digital contracting processes, emphasising transparency, accountability and adherence to contractual agreements as essential elements of successful business partnerships.

Participants also examined how emerging technologies could improve decision-making, increase operational visibility, mitigate risks and create a more responsive supply chain.

The forum featured an awards ceremony recognising suppliers for their performance, innovation and service delivery across the information technology, commercial and network categories.

Among the organisations recognised were Simtekcard, Custodian and Allied Insurance Plc, Huawei Technologies Company Nigeria Ltd, Leadway Health Ltd, ZTE Nigeria Ltd, Royal Power and Energy Ltd, Dell and CWG Plc.

MTN said recognising outstanding suppliers was important to strengthening business relationships, encouraging continuous improvement and promoting excellence across its supply chain.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to working with suppliers to develop innovative solutions, improve operational efficiency and strengthen governance across its business ecosystem.

It added that local content development, collaboration and shared innovation remained essential to creating long-term value for the company and its partners while supporting Africa’s digital development.