Olufemi Adeyemi 

A fresh push for environmental sustainability has emerged in Nigeria’s telecom sector as MTN Nigeria, in collaboration with CardCentre Nigeria Limited, has launched biodegradable SIM cards aimed at reducing plastic waste in the country and across West Africa.

The eco-friendly cards, unveiled in Lagos, are produced entirely from recyclable materials through energy-efficient processes. They are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), signaling compliance with international sustainability standards while delivering the same level of performance expected from conventional SIM cards.

Industry players say the move aligns with growing global efforts to minimize the carbon footprint of telecom operations, particularly in emerging markets where millions of SIM cards are in circulation.



L-R: General Manager, Regulatory Affairs, MTN Nigeria PLC, Ikenna Ikeme; Group Managing Director, Chams Holdco PLC, Mayowa Olaniyan; Chief Sales and Distribution Officer (CSDO), MTN Nigeria, Olusina Adegoke, Managing Director/ CEO CardCentre Nigeria Limited, Olalekan Latona; General Manager, Sustainability and Shared Value, MTN Nigeria, Adekemi Adisa and General Manager, Global Soucing and Supply Chain (GSSC), MTN Nigeria, Adeola Oduntan at the launch of Eco-Friendly SIM cards in Lagos recently
Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Executive Officer of CardCentre, Mr. Lekan Latona, described the partnership as “a crucial milestone in the transition toward greener solutions within the telecom industry.” He added that the locally manufactured SIMs represent a major contribution to Nigeria’s environmental agenda.

MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Mr. Tobe Okigbo, emphasized that beyond the environmental gains, the project reflects MTN’s strategy of supporting local businesses through innovation-driven collaborations. “This partnership underscores our commitment to sustainability and economic growth through strategic alliances,” he said.

The launch reinforces MTN’s broader sustainability commitments, which include cutting back on non-biodegradable materials and promoting responsible consumption practices in its operations.