Airtel Nigeria and 3MTT Launch NextGen Fellowship to Train Thousands of Young Tech Talents
Airtel Nigeria, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, has launched the NextGen by Airtel & 3MTT Fellowship, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering Nigeria’s next generation of tech innovators, creators, and problem-solvers.
The NextGen Fellowship marks a new phase in the Airtel × 3MTT collaboration, building on the success of earlier cohorts to provide advanced digital training, mentorship, and community engagement for thousands of Nigerian youths across more than 45 learning centres nationwide.
Airtel says the initiative underscores its long-term commitment to digital inclusion by leveraging its technology, infrastructure, and national reach to connect young Nigerians to opportunities in high-demand tech fields such as software development, data analysis, product design, and digital marketing.
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, described the initiative as a strong example of what effective public–private partnerships can achieve.
“The NextGen Fellowship is a demonstration of what public–private partnerships can achieve. Airtel’s commitment to this vision is helping us unlock the potential of Nigerian talent at scale, ensuring that the skills we are building today are relevant for the digital economy of tomorrow.”
The programme will offer fellows immersive learning experiences, access to real-world projects, and expert mentorship delivered through Airtel-supported Applied Learning Centres (ALCs). Participants will also benefit from exclusive Airtel masterclasses, community showcases, and nationwide hackathons designed to foster innovation and collaboration.
Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Dinesh Balsingh, emphasised the company’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation and the empowerment of its youth.
“With this NextGen Fellowship under the 3MTT initiative, we are not just powering connectivity, we are reaffirming our belief that Nigeria’s youth are the true architects of our digital future. Through this fellowship, we are creating real pathways for young Nigerians to learn, innovate, and lead.”
He added that Airtel is proud to support the national programme by helping to train 25,000 young tech talents across 46 local government areas in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The launch of the NextGen Fellowship aligns with Airtel’s ongoing investment in education, skills development, and youth empowerment—further solidifying its role as a strategic partner in advancing Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).
Applications for the first edition of the NextGen by Airtel & 3MTT Fellowship are now officially open.
