Nigeria’s push to build a stronger digital workforce is gaining momentum as the Airtel Africa Foundation and the Nigerian government-backed 3 Million Technical Talent programme, widely known as 3MTT, open applications for the NextGen Fellowship 2026.
- Nigeria’s push to build a stronger digital workforce is gaining momentum as the Airtel Africa Foundation and the Nigerian government-backed...
- The initiative offers free technology training for young Nigerians seeking careers in software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, UI/UX...
- The programme combines virtual learning with physical Applied Learning Centres spread across Nigeria.
- Beyond training, selected fellows will join hackathons, innovation challenges, externships, and community showcases aimed at helping them build practical experience...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on 3MTT — everything you need to know is covered below.
The initiative offers free technology training for young Nigerians seeking careers in software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, UI/UX design, and data science.
The fellowship is part of the broader 3MTT programme under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and is supported by the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA.
Organisers say the programme aims to equip young Nigerians with practical digital skills, industry exposure, and pathways into employment.
Training Built Around Real Industry Needs
According to information released on the official NextGen Fellowship portal, participants will receive hands-on training across several high-demand tech fields. Learning tracks include software development, data science, cloud computing, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, UI/UX design, and product management.
The programme combines virtual learning with physical Applied Learning Centres spread across Nigeria. Fellows are expected to complete projects, participate in team collaborations, and solve practical challenges linked to real workplace demands.
Organisers say the learning structure focuses on employability and technical competence rather than theory alone. Participants will also gain access to mentorship sessions led by industry professionals from Airtel and partner organisations.
Mentorship, Hackathons and Job Support
One of the major attractions of the fellowship is its career support package. Beyond training, selected fellows will join hackathons, innovation challenges, externships, and community showcases aimed at helping them build practical experience and professional networks.
The fellowship also promises externship opportunities and job placement support for participants who complete the programme successfully. Certificates and digital badges will be issued to fellows as proof of training and project participation.
Officials behind the initiative say the programme aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to grow a future-ready workforce capable of competing in the global digital economy. Airtel Africa Foundation has committed ₦1 billion toward digital inclusion efforts linked to the fellowship and the wider 3MTT initiative.
Applications Open Nationwide
Applications are open to young Nigerians from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The fellowship targets learners, job seekers, innovators, creators, and professionals looking to transition into the technology sector.
Applicants are required to register through the official 3MTT and NextGen Fellowship portals, complete online assessments, and indicate their preferred technical track. While organisers have not announced a fixed deadline, they say applications are ongoing and selection will take place in cohorts.
The programme arrives at a time when demand for digital skills continues to rise across Africa’s technology sector, with employers increasingly seeking talent in software engineering, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud services.