Nigeria Secures ₦1 Billion Airtel Grant to Support 3MTT Programme

The Nigerian Government has received a ₦1 billion grant from Airtel Africa Foundation to support the 3 million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme.

This initiative aims to train and empower over 25,000 Nigerians with in-demand technical skills, enhancing the country’s digital workforce in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, made this known on Wednesday after receiving the cheque from the Foundation’s Chairman, Dr Segun Ogunsanya.

Spearheaded by the Minister as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic talent development initiatives for the technology sector, the 3MTT programme seeks to bridge the digital divide and position Nigeria as a key player in the global technology industry.

Tijani stated that the grant would be used to train and empower over 25,000 Nigerians with in-demand technical skills under the 3MTT programme.

Also Read: FG Launches Second Phase of 3MTT Initiative

“Today we received a N1 billion grant from the Airtel Africa Foundation for our 3MTT Nigeria program.

“The grant will cover hands-on training, community engagement, and job placement initiatives, all with the objective of enhancing Nigeria’s digital workforce in alignment with H.E. President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Grateful to the Airtel Africa Foundation for collaborating with us as we work to position Nigeria as a key player in the global technology landscape,” the Minister said.

Tijani reiterated that the 3MTT programme is a fundamental part of the government’s commitment to building a thriving digital economy in Nigeria.

In his remarks, Dr Ogunsanya reaffirmed Airtel’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth by supporting key development initiatives.

He emphasised Airtel’s belief in the transformative power of technology and digital skills to unlock opportunities, drive economic growth, and uplift communities.

According to him, the 3MTT programme is a bold step towards ensuring that Nigerian youths do not just participate in the digital revolution but lead it.

“Our N1 billion support is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future workforce and prosperity,” he said.

Previous Support

The ₦1 billion grant from Airtel Africa Foundation marks the second major boost for the 3MTT programme since its launch in 2023.

In November 2023, the Federal Government secured a ₦1 billion partnership with telecom infrastructure firm IHS Towers to establish learning communities across Nigeria for the 3MTT programme.

According to the Minister, the funding from IHS Towers also includes a commitment to covering the salaries of 37 learning community managers across different locations for the next three years.

The 3MTT initiative began with 30,000 Nigerians, representing 1% of the overall target of 3 million. An additional 270,000 participants were later selected for the second cohort, bringing the programme closer to 10% of its goal.

Tijani stated that the programme would be executed in phases, following a structured framework co-developed with key stakeholders.