Karl Toriola is a top Nigerian telecom expert and the CEO of MTN Nigeria. With over 20 years of experience, he has led major telecom projects across Africa. He is widely recognized for his leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s telecommunications industry.
| Common Name | Mr. Karl |
| Full Name | Karl Olutokun Toriola |
| Age | 53 years old (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1972 |
| Gender | Male |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Yoruba |
| State of Origin | Osun |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Net Worth | $11 million |
Table of Contents
Mr. Karl Toriola Biography
Karl Olutokun Toriola is a Nigerian business executive and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Nigeria. Born on March 16, 1972, he is a highly experienced telecommunications professional with extensive leadership roles in various companies across Africa. Karl is originally from Modakeke in Ife East Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria. His leadership at MTN Nigeria has contributed significantly to the company’s growth and expansion.
Mr. Karl Toriola’s Educational Background
Karl Toriola holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. Hons.) degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. He furthered his studies by obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Communication Systems from the University of Wales, Swansea, UK. Additionally, he has completed executive education programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School, London Business School, and the Institute of Management Development (IMD), Switzerland.
Mr. Karl Toriola Career
Karl began his career in 2000 at Ericsson Nigeria as a Support and Integration Manager. In 2003, he moved to Econet Nigeria (now Airtel Nigeria) as Deputy Chief Technical Officer and later became the Chief Operations Officer at Vmobile Nigeria. In 2006, he joined MTN Nigeria as Chief Technical Officer (CTO). Over the years, he has held several leadership roles within the MTN Group, including:
- CEO of MTN Congo Brazzaville (2011)
- CEO of MTN Cameroon (2011)
- Vice President of MTN Group’s West and Central Africa (WECA) region (2015-2020)
- CEO of MTN Nigeria (appointed in October 2020)
Karl also serves on various corporate boards and is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) as well as a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Institute of Directors (IoD).
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Mr. Karl Toriola Salary
As the CEO of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola is among the highest-paid executives in the country. His total remuneration increased significantly to ₦1.625 billion, marking a 91.18% rise from the ₦850 million he previously earned. This sharp increase reflects MTN Nigeria’s growth and his leadership impact.
Before this, Toriola’s salary had been increasing steadily from ₦368 million to ₦850 million. His compensation includes a combination of salary, bonuses, and other executive benefits. His earnings are expected to rise further, depending on the company’s financial performance and board decisions.
Mr. Karl Toriola Awards
Karl Toriola has received several recognitions and awards for his contributions to the telecommunications industry. Notably, he was honored with an honorary Doctor of Science degree from Obafemi Awolowo University. His leadership has also led MTN Nigeria to win multiple industry awards for innovation and customer service excellence.
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Mr. Karl Toriola’s Controversy
Karl Toriola has faced criticism due to MTN Nigeria’s financial struggles, particularly after the company recorded a ₦400 billion loss due to naira devaluation. In response, he advocated for a 100% tariff increase on calls, data, and SMS, arguing that it was essential for the telecom sector’s survival. However, this proposal sparked public backlash, with many Nigerians expressing affordability concerns. His statement that the industry was “on its knees financially” further fueled debates about MTN’s operations, regulatory policies, and Nigeria’s broader economic challenges.
Mr. Karl Toriola Age
Karl Toriola was born on March 16, 1972, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, He is 53 years old as of 2025.
Mr. Karl Toriola Religion
Karl Toriola is a devoted Christian. His faith plays a significant role in his life, guiding his values and decisions. Despite his private nature, he upholds Christian principles in his personal and professional life.
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Mr. Karl Toriola Personal Life
Karl Toriola is a family-oriented and private individual who enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and traveling. He finds relaxation in exploring Nigeria’s coastal waters and discovering new destinations. Despite his high-profile career, he balances work with personal life and is actively involved in his community. He also owns multiple business ventures, including Cameron Hotel in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Mr. Karl Toriola’s Wife
Karl Toriola is happily married but keeps details about his wife private. He prefers to focus on his professional journey while ensuring his family remains out of the public eye.
Mr. Karl Toriola Children
Karl Toriola has a daughter, Damilola Karla Toriola, who gained public attention as a minority shareholder in MTN Nigeria. Her involvement in business reflects early exposure to investments. Despite his successful career, Toriola keeps his family life private, ensuring a balance between work and personal matters.
Mr. Karl Toriola Parents
Karl Toriola was born into a distinguished Nigerian family. His father, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, is the 20th Ogunsua of Modakeke, Osun State. Before becoming a traditional ruler in April 2022, Oba Toriola was a businessman who had waited 43 years to ascend the throne. His leadership is expected to bring unity and progress to the Modakeke community.
Mr. Karl Toriola Net Worth
Karl Toriola has an estimated net worth of $11 million as of 2025. His wealth comes from his position as the CEO of MTN Nigeria, where he earns a significant salary and bonuses. Additionally, he has investments in various businesses, including hospitality. Despite his financial success, he keeps his assets and investments private.
Mr. Karl Toriola Social Media Handles
Karl Toriola maintains a professional presence on social media, primarily using LinkedIn. He shares insights about the telecommunications industry, leadership strategies, and updates on MTN Nigeria.
- LinkedIn: Karl Olutokun Toriola.