The Nigerian government has secured a N1 billion grant from Airtel Africa Foundation to boost its 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme. This initiative, led by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, is a core part of President Bola Tinubu’s strategy to position Nigeria as a leading tech hub.
Receiving the cheque from Airtel Africa Foundation Chairman Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Tijani described the funding as a major step in equipping Nigerians with in-demand digital skills. The grant will support hands-on training, community engagement, and job placement for 25,000 participants, strengthening the country’s digital workforce.
“This funding will help equip Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in the digital space,” Tijani stated. “Airtel Africa Foundation’s collaboration demonstrates the role of the private sector in fostering innovation and expanding access to digital opportunities.”
Building a Tech-Driven Economy
Airtel Africa sees the investment as a catalyst for economic growth. Ogunsanya reaffirmed the company’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s digital talent, emphasising the need to prepare young Nigerians for leadership in the global tech industry.
“Our N1 billion support is aimed at creating opportunities for young Nigerians to develop technical skills that will drive economic prosperity,” he said.
This latest backing follows a previous N1 billion agreement between the government and IHS Towers in 2023. That partnership covered salaries for 37 learning community managers over three years and the establishment of digital learning hubs across the country.
Since its launch in 2023, the 3MTT programme has made significant strides. The first cohort of 30,000 trainees marked an initial step, later expanding to 270,000 participants—bringing the initiative to 10% of its three million target. The training covers key digital disciplines such as data analysis, cloud computing, SEO, UX/UI design, digital marketing, and project management software.
Future phases will see expanded collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, and private-sector partners to scale the initiative. With substantial industry backing, Nigeria is rapidly positioning itself as a digital economy powerhouse. But can it hit its ambitious training target?
