MTN Nigeria Powers Youth with ₦3 Billion Investment in 3MTT Digital Skills Programme
In a bold step to build Nigeria’s future-ready workforce, MTN Nigeria has committed a total of ₦3 billion to support the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme. The initiative aims to train millions of young Nigerians in in-demand digital skills, unlocking economic opportunities and advancing the country’s position in the global tech talent ecosystem.
What is the 3MTT Programme?
The 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative is Nigeria’s largest digital skills acceleration programme. It targets training 3 million youths in fields like:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud Computing
- Data Analytics
- Product Management
- Software Development
- And other high-demand digital skills
The goal is to transform Nigeria into a net exporter of tech talent by 2027, while bridging local unemployment and closing the global tech talent gap.
MTN Nigeria’s ₦3 Billion Commitment: A Breakdown
As a founding partner, MTN Nigeria’s support has been central to the success of the programme so far. Here’s how the ₦3 billion has been allocated:
- ₦1.45 billion to fund technical training for over 90,000 Nigerians across two pilot cohorts
- ₦1.5 billion in data grants, easing access to internet connectivity during training
- ₦50 million invested in Raspberry Pi devices for hands-on learning through the Ministry’s Buildathon initiative
These devices have already empowered 3,500 secondary school students nationwide by fostering practical technology skills, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Government Applauds Private Sector Partnership
“As we work to position Nigeria as a global hub for digital talent, partnerships like this are vital in ensuring that opportunity is not limited by geography or circumstance, but driven by skill, inclusion, and shared purpose.”
— Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy
The programme has received over 1.8 million applications to date and is preparing for a national scale-up phase in Q2. This next stage will include the rollout of the Nigeria Talent Cities Initiative, which aims to unlock 500,000 jobs by 2027 through digital outsourcing hubs and smart campuses.
Building the Backbone of Nigeria’s Digital Economy
“Our commitment to the 3MTT Programme is a commitment to Nigeria’s future.”
— Karl Toriola, CEO, MTN Nigeria
MTN’s involvement directly addresses barriers like affordability, infrastructure, and access, ensuring that even youth in underserved communities can access fully funded scholarships and resources. Through this intervention, participants are empowered to transition into the global digital economy.
MTN Nigeria continues to champion Africa’s digital transformation, leveraging its position as a leading telecom provider to drive economic growth, employment, and innovation.
Why MTN’s Support Matters
- Over 90,000 Nigerians trained
- Partnered with 197 Applied Learning Cluster (ALC) organisations
- Boosts digital inclusion and job readiness
- Promotes Nigeria as a global talent hub
- Focuses on youth empowerment, particularly in rural and underserved areas
Looking Ahead: MTN’s Continued Commitment
As the 3MTT Programme scales nationally, MTN Nigeria’s support will remain crucial in reaching more learners. The telecom giant is helping lay the groundwork for a digitally empowered generation, one equipped with future-proof skills and the opportunity to thrive on both local and international stages.
Together with the Ministry and other key partners, MTN is shaping a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven economy powered by the next wave of Nigerian tech talent.
