*From left: General Manager, Regulatory Affairs, MTN Nigeria Plc, Ikenna Ikeme; Group Managing Director, Chams Holdings (Chams Holdco) Plc, Mayowa Olaniyan; Chief Sales and Distribution Officer, MTN Nigeria, Olusina Adegoke, Managing Director, CardCentre Nigeria Limited, Olalekan Latona; General Manager, Sustainability and Shared Value, MTN Nigeria, Adekemi Adisa and General Manager, Global Soucing and Supply Chain, MTN Nigeria, Adeola Oduntan at the launch of eco-friendly SIM cards in Lagos
CardCentre Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of Chams HoldCo has launched eco-friendly SIM cards across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This pioneering initiative, developed in collaboration with MTN Nigeria, was officially unveiled in Lagos and marked a significant advancement in the country's telecommunications sector.
Chief Executive Officer, CardCentre Nigeria Limited, Lekan Latona said the new SIM cards were made entirely from 100 per cent biodegradable materials and hold certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), confirming compliance with sustainable forestry standards.
He said the cards were engineered to minimize environmental impact as they were produced using recyclable components and energy-efficient manufacturing techniques, meeting global sustainability benchmarks while delivering the reliable performance expected by telecom users.
According to him, the initiative highlighted the mutual commitment of CardCentre and MTN Nigeria to lowering their environmental footprint and fostering sustainable practices within the sector.
He noted that by substituting traditional plastic SIM cards with biodegradable alternatives, the partnership seeks to drastically cut plastic waste and pollution in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
"We are proud to collaborate with MTN Nigeria on this innovative project. Our biodegradable SIM cards mark an important step toward a greener future for telecommunications," Latona said.
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria, Tobe Okigbo said the company was passionate about positively impacting both the environment and the communities.
"This partnership with CardCentre underscores our commitment to sustainability and innovation, while also supporting local businesses and stimulating economic growth through strategic alliances," Okigbo said.
Latona said CardCentre remains at the forefront of smart card manufacturing and personalization, with a proven history of delivering transformative solutions across Nigeria and beyond.
He added that the latest advancement further strengthens its role as a key catalyst for sustainable development in the technology sector.
"Through continuous research and development, CardCentre is exploring additional eco-friendly initiatives within its product range, maintaining its focus on providing high-quality, innovative, and environmentally responsible solutions for clients in the financial, telecommunications, and public service industries," Latona said.