In a world where corporate social responsibility is often reduced to mere rhetoric, Globacom continues to set itself apart through tangible actions that directly impact the lives of its customers. A recent example of its give back culture is the Festival of Joy promo, which is a shining example of this commitment—a nationwide initiative designed not only to reward loyalty but to transform lives in meaningful ways. From brand-new luxury SUVs to tricycles, power generators, and sewing machines, the promo has brought joy to countless Nigerians, reinforcing Glo’s reputation as a brand that prioritises its customers’ well-being. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that beyond the prizes, the festival is a movement that underscores the power of gratitude and corporate generosity in Nigeria’s business landscape
It was a morning like no other at the Globacom office on Aminu Kano Way, Abuja. The sun shone brilliantly on two gleaming automobiles positioned prominently at the venue—the grand Toyota Prado, standing tall in its resplendent Glo-coloured hue, and a more compact but equally impressive Kia Picanto. Both vehicles, fresh from the factory, were soon to be handed over to their new owners in a dazzling display of reward and appreciation.
The occasion was the Abuja leg of the ongoing Festival of Joy promo, an initiative by Globacom, one of Nigeria’s leading telecommunications companies, designed to reward loyal customers. Across different cities, including Lagos and Warri, similar ceremonies had already taken place, with winners receiving luxury Toyota Prados, tricycles, power generating sets, sewing machines, and grinding machines. Abuja was the next stop, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement.
However, what truly set this event apart was not just the valuable prizes, but the calibre of personalities who had gathered to witness and lend credibility to the proceedings. Distinguished guests included Senator Simon Lalong, the former governor of Plateau State and a serving senator; Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the spokesman of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth and Community Engagements; and Honourable Joshua Audu Gana from the House of Representatives.
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Marriya Mahmoud, was represented by Maijidda Adamu Kuku, her Special Assistant and Coordinator of the Social Investment Programme, while Senator Ireti Kingibe, the senator representing the FCT, was represented by Dr Ada Ibekwe. Also in attendance were high-ranking officials from regulatory bodies, including the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, representatives from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC).
Adding glitz to the event was an ensemble of A-list Nigerian celebrities, including popular actress Juliet Ibrahim, Ebube Nwagbo, social media influencer KieKie, and comedians Gordons, Seyi Law, and Tee A, who served as the anchor. Their presence added entertainment value to the event, further endearing the Glo brand to the audience.
A Life-Changing Call
For one woman, the day marked an unimaginable shift in her fortunes. Sarah Ilya Madu, a federal civil servant and native of Chibok in Borno State, had no inkling that her life was about to change when she started receiving persistent calls from an unfamiliar number. She dismissed the calls, assuming they were from pranksters or scammers.
“I dropped the calls several times, not knowing it was for a prize such as this. I thought someone was playing a fast one on me. This is too good to be true,” Sarah recounted with amazement.
It was only after her colleagues persuaded her to do a video call with the Globacom representatives that she began to reconsider. Even then, she remained sceptical. Convinced that she might be walking into a trap, she insisted on bringing along a well-built colleague when she eventually visited the Glo office. When she was handed the keys to the brand-new Toyota Prado, reality finally set in.
“I will tell everyone—my family, my colleagues, my church members—about this. I am beyond grateful to Glo,” she said, beaming with excitement.
Dedication Rewarded
Another remarkable story from the event was that of 43-year-old Victor Ufot, a businessman based in the FCT. Unlike Sarah, Victor had no doubts about the authenticity of the promo. He had been diligently recharging his Glo line, ensuring he met the cumulative requirement to qualify for the Kia Picanto.
“I was always hopeful that I would win something because I kept recharging. Seeing this brand-new car before me now, I can say my dedication has paid off,” he said, his joy palpable.
Beyond the two car winners, dozens of others left the venue with life-enhancing prizes. Ireimiya Mallo, a native of Nasarawa State, won a tricycle, which he described as an empowering asset. “I will use it for commercial purposes to generate more income. Thank you, Glo,” he declared.
Similarly, Abubakar Abdullahi, who works with an automobile firm in Abuja, won a power generating set and expressed deep gratitude to Globacom for gifting him such a useful appliance. Emmanuel David, a media practitioner from Abia State, won a sewing machine and already had a plan in place. “This will be an exciting development for my wife. She will be thrilled,” he shared.
Seamless Process
For those hoping to be the next big winners, the process remains simple and accessible. Explaining the mechanics, Globacom’s Head of Division for North Central, Kazeem Kaka, detailed how subscribers could enter the Festival of Joy promo.
“Customers are required to recharge up to ₦100,000 cumulatively during the promo period to qualify for the draw for the Toyota Prado. A recharge of ₦50,000 qualifies one for the Kia Picanto, ₦10,000 in a month for a tricycle, and ₦5,000 in a month for a power generator. To win a sewing machine, a subscriber must recharge ₦2,500 within a month, while ₦1,000 in a week qualifies one for a grinding machine. New subscribers can join immediately by purchasing a new SIM, registering it, and dialling *611#,” he explained.
Commendations
The initiative received resounding commendation from the dignitaries present. Senator Simon Lalong, a seasoned politician with vast experience in governance, applauded the Chairman of Globacom, Dr Mike Adenuga, for spearheading the campaign and giving back to Nigerians in such a tangible way. His remarks took a light-hearted turn when he joked about wanting to win a Glo promo himself someday.
Senator Yemi Adaramodu echoed similar sentiments, praising Glo not only for attracting customers but also for consistently rewarding them through various promotions. In a humorous jab at the stereotype that people from Ijebu (Dr Adenuga’s ethnic background) are tight-fisted with money, he quipped that the billionaire businessman’s generosity had proven this notion wrong.
Mariam Imam, the representative of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, underscored the transparency of the entire process. “We have monitored the draws from inception up to this moment, and we are pleased with the fairness of the process,” she affirmed.
Likewise, Moses Iyi, Assistant Director of Consumer Affairs at the NCC, commended Globacom’s compliance with industry regulations. “The NCC is committed to ensuring that Nigerian consumers get the best deals. We are satisfied with how Glo has handled this promo,” he noted.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Beyond the entertainment and excitement, the Festival of Joy promo reinforces Globacom’s commitment to empowering its customers. In a competitive telecommunications landscape, the company continues to stand out, not only by providing reliable services but also by directly rewarding subscribers for their loyalty.
For many of the winners, the event was not just about receiving prizes; it was about a transformative experience—one that would significantly impact their lives and livelihoods. Whether it was a car, a tricycle, or a sewing machine, each prize represented an opportunity, a step towards a better future.
As Abuja’s winners drove away with their new assets, they carried with them more than just material rewards; they bore testimonies of a brand that truly values and appreciates its customers. And with the Festival of Joy still ongoing, more life-changing calls are yet to be made. Will you be the next to pick up?
