MTN Foundation, MUSON Deepen Investment in Nigeria’s Creative Economy Ahead of 2026 Graduation Activities

The MTN Foundation and Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) will celebrate the 2026 MUSON School of Music graduation on July 7 and July 8 at the Shell Hall, MUSON centre, as the long-running partnership continues to strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy through sustained investment in music education and talent development.

The two-day programme will feature a graduation concert and a formal ceremony recognising students completing the Diploma in Music programme.

Beyond the graduation activities, the partnership reflects nearly two decades of investment in developing young Nigerian musicians and creating pathways into the country’s growing creative industry.

Since the partnership began in 2006, the MTN MUSON Music Scholars Programme has provided scholarships to more than 553 young Nigerians, helping create a pipeline of emerging musicians seeking formal training and industry exposure.

The initiative supports approximately 45 music scholars annually through a two-year diploma programme, providing access to structured music education and professional development opportunities.

The programme has evolved into one of Nigeria’s leading pathways for formal music training, combining performance studies, music theory and ensemble practice with practical experience designed to prepare students for careers across the wider music and creative industries.

The investment extends beyond scholarship support. The Foundation has invested close to ₦1 billion in the MUSON partnership over the years while strengthening learning infrastructure through the establishment of a fully equipped digital music studio and additional music equipment for students.

The graduation activities are expected to spotlight the latest cohort of emerging talents entering the industry, while also reflecting the broader role of music education in supporting employment, skills development and Nigeria’s cultural influence globally.

Through sustained support for young talents and formal creative education, the MTN Foundation–MUSON collaboration continues to contribute to the development of Nigeria’s wider creative ecosystem.