itel, the mobile technology brand known for affordability and tech empowerment, has expanded its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts with a fresh investment in education. Under its flagship “Love Always On” initiative, the company partnered with the Ise Omoluabi Foundation, to provide back-to-school support to Omolaiye Community Primary School in Agbede, Ikorodu, Lagos.
More than N4 million worth of supplies were donated, including school bags, exercise books, pens, pencils, and mathematical sets. For families in the community, many of whom struggle to afford such essentials, the intervention offered immediate relief.
Speaking at the event, Terngu Simeon Shagba, PR supervisor for itel Mobile Nigeria, said the project represents more than philanthropy. “Love Always On is a reflection of our core value of giving back to underserved communities. By investing in education, we are not just serving as a tech empowerment brand, but also as one that is deeply committed to impacting lives. This project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education for all,” he noted.
The head teacher of the school, Oyeneye Teniola Kehinde, welcomed the gesture, emphasizing that it will boost pupils’ confidence and improve their learning experience. “Many of our pupils come from families that struggle to provide the most basic school items. These donations will encourage them to stay focused on their education,” she said.
This is the latest in a series of CSR projects by itel in Nigeria. Earlier in 2025, the company provided a solar-powered borehole in Nasarawa State, addressing water scarcity for thousands of residents in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6. In May, itel also partnered with NTA Channel 10 during Children’s Day celebrations to distribute learning materials to more than 51 schools in Lagos.
Analysts say such interventions, though modest compared to Nigeria’s education funding needs, play an important role in bridging gaps. Public spending on education has hovered between 5 and 8 percent of annual budgets, well below the UNESCO benchmark of 15–20 percent. Private contributions like itel’s provide critical stopgaps for schools and families.
For itel, whose market share relies on serving price-sensitive consumers, CSR initiatives strengthen its brand positioning. By easing household pressures on essentials such as education and clean water, the company builds goodwill in markets where inflation and low disposable incomes shape consumer choices.
Founded more than 15 years ago, itel has grown from a budget phone maker into a global brand with products spanning smartphones, accessories, home appliances, and lifestyle electronics. Operating in over 80 emerging markets across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, the company has consistently ranked as a leader in affordable devices, including recognition in 2024 as the world’s number one smartphone brand under $75.
