NITDA and Airtel Nigeria Launch 2026 3MTT NextGen Fellowship Programme
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with Airtel Nigeria, has officially opened applications for the 2026 Airtel–3MTT NextGen Fellowship Programme. This major initiative is designed to train and empower Nigeria's next generation of technology professionals, focusing on practical digital skills, mentorship, and career development opportunities within the country's rapidly expanding digital economy.
Programme Overview and Government Partnership
The fellowship is a specialized component of the Federal Government's broader 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, which was pioneered by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani. Backed by the Airtel Africa Foundation, the programme aims to equip young Nigerians with in-demand digital competencies while providing access to funding, expert guidance, and job placement support. With a strong emphasis on employability and innovation, it seeks to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application in tech industries.
Key Benefits and Opportunities for Participants
Selected fellows will gain access to a comprehensive range of opportunities designed to accelerate their professional growth. These include:
- Hands-on, project-based learning experiences that simulate industry demands.
- Mentorship from seasoned experts within Airtel and the 3MTT network.
- Participation in national innovation competitions and hackathons for exposure.
- Externship and job placement assistance to facilitate career transitions.
- Certificates and digital badges upon completion to validate acquired skills.
The programme is supported by Airtel's ₦1 billion commitment to digital inclusion, aligning with governmental efforts to build a future-ready workforce and reduce unemployment by creating pathways into high-growth digital careers.
Eligibility and Application Process
The fellowship is open to young Nigerians who are passionate about technology and willing to engage in an intensive learning journey. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in one or more of the following high-demand areas:
- Software Development
- Data Science and Analytics
- Cybersecurity
- UI/UX Design
- Cloud Computing
- Product Management
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Candidates must be prepared to actively participate in programme activities, such as collaborative projects and innovation challenges. Interested individuals can submit their applications online via the official portal at https://nextgen.3mttnigeria.com/. While no specific deadline has been announced, early application is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Training Focus and Industry Relevance
The programme will deliver targeted training across several critical tech disciplines, ensuring participants gain relevant and practical skills that meet current employer needs. Each track is structured to provide hands-on experience, from coding and data analysis to security protocols and user interface design, fostering a comprehensive understanding of modern digital tools and methodologies.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for young Nigerians to acquire cutting-edge skills, access viable career pathways, and position themselves at the forefront of the nation's digital transformation. It builds on previous efforts, such as the Airtel Africa Foundation's Undergraduate Tech Scholarship Programme, which supports ICT students with full tuition and stipends, highlighting a continued commitment to nurturing tech talent in Nigeria.
