12-Year-Old mPulse Spelling Bee Winner Resumes as MTN’s One-Day CEO

A student of Intimacy with Christ Secondary School, Nasarawa State, Master Daniel Victor Nkanu, 12, was recently announced as the honorary One-Day CEO of MTN Nigeria following his success at the 2023 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition, a self-development proposition designed to promote digital literacy and academic excellence among students.

Nkanu, who out-spelled over 30,000 participants, attends the same school as last year’s winner, showcasing the school’s consistent commitment to nurturing such talent.

In addition to his honorary CEO title, he was awarded a N2.5 million scholarship, a laptop, a smartphone, and an MTN goody bag. His English teacher and school also received a N500,000 grant and modern ICT devices, respectively, acknowledging their integral role in his success.

With a confident stride, Nkanu stepped into the shoes of Karl Toriola at the helm of Africa’s largest telecommunications network.

As CEO, he engaged with members of MTN Nigeria’s executive team. He also met with journalists, where he confidently discussed key initiatives, including unveiling additional mPulse education data bundles.

Speaking with journalists, he expressed excitement about his feat, saying, “I am honoured to be here today. Leading Nigeria’s largest telecommunications company, even just for today, is a very special experience for me, and I want to thank my family, my teachers and everyone who cheered me on while I prepared for this competition. I look forward to learning a lot.”

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Mr Karl Toriola, who welcomed Nkanu during the symbolic handover, described him as one who has become a symbol of “what we strive to achieve: a future where young Nigerians lead the way in technology, innovation, and social progress.”

He stated that Nkanu’s presence at the office for a day was a reminder of the responsibility the organisation carries and the opportunities it can create.