Airtel Nigeria has partnered with the Wikimedia Foundation to launch Wikipedia Zero to its subscribers in a move that will see 21 million users access free knowledge and information via their mobile phones minus data charges.Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Commercial Officer, Maurice Newa, said the new service will empower Nigerians with relevant knowledge and information so that they succeed in their daily personal and professional endeavors.
“We are excited with our partnership with the Wikimedia Foundation and we will continue to provide innovative solutions that will uplift Nigerians in line with our brand promise of becoming the most loved brand in the daily lives of Nigerians,” he said.
Newa added that Airtel is passionate and committed to creating solid educational and youth empowerment platforms that will enrich and transform the lives of telecoms consumers across the country.
The new service is available at m.wikipedia.org.
Carolynne Schloeder, Head of Mobile Partnerships at the Wikimedia Foundation said, “Expanding Wikipedia Zero to the people of Nigeria is a big step forward for free knowledge in Africa. We commend Airtel Nigeria for taking a leadership role in empowering their society through information access, and we’re thrilled to partner with them.”
In Kenya, Safaricom is offering a similar service for its subscribers.