MTN Nigeria has committed ₦3 billion to support the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme. This investment aims to transform Nigeria into a global hub for technical talent while addressing the worldwide tech skills shortage.
Key Investment Highlights
Financial Commitment Breakdown
- Total Investment: ₦3 billion committed
- Training Support: ₦1.45 billion already disbursed
- Data Grants: ₦1.5 billion for connectivity access
- Technology Equipment: ₦50 million for Raspberry Pi devices
- Students Trained: Over 90,000 Nigerians across two cohorts
Programme Reach and Impact
The 3MTT Programme has achieved significant milestones:
- 197 Partner Applied Learning Cluster (ALC) organisations nationwide
- 3,500 young innovators supported through Raspberry Pi kits in secondary schools
- Over 1.8 million applications received to date
- Target: 500,000 jobs by 2027 through the Nigeria Talent Cities Initiative
What is the 3MTT Programme?
The 3 Million Technical Talent Programme represents the world’s largest tech talent accelerator. Launched by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, it addresses critical skills gaps in:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Product Management
- Cloud Computing
- Software Development
- Additional emerging technologies
Programme Structure
The initiative operates through a network of Applied Learning Clusters (ALCs) that provide hands-on training across Nigeria. Participants receive fully-funded scholarships, removing financial barriers to digital skills acquisition.
Strategic Partnership Framework
Founding Partners
MTN Nigeria serves as a founding supporter alongside:
- Pan-African United Foundation (PAUF)
- Lagos Business School (implementation support)
Partnership Benefits
This collaboration addresses key barriers to digital skills training:
- Affordability: Fully paid scholarships for participants
- Infrastructure: Data grants ensuring connectivity
- Access: Nationwide reach through ALC network
- Equipment: Technology tools for practical learning
Leadership Perspectives
Government Vision
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, emphasizes the programme’s global significance:
“MTN Nigeria has been a committed partner to the 3MTT Programme since its inception, playing a vital role in laying the foundation for what has become the world’s largest tech talent accelerator.”
Corporate Commitment
Karl Olutokun Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, highlights the strategic importance:
“As a technology company committed to advancing Africa’s progress, we recognise that digital skills are the bedrock of innovation, employment, and economic inclusion.”
Programme Phases and Timeline
Current Status
- Pilot Phase: Final cohort ongoing
- Scale-up Phase: Commencing Q2 2024
- Long-term Goal: 3 million trained technical professionals
Nigeria Talent Cities Initiative
The newly launched initiative aims to:
- Build a network of specialized training campuses
- Create outsourcing opportunities
- Generate 500,000 jobs by 2027
- Position Nigeria as a global talent exporter
Economic Impact and Opportunities
Addressing Global Tech Talent Shortage
The programme directly responds to worldwide demand for technical skills, positioning Nigeria to:
- Export technical talent globally
- Attract international technology investments
- Build a sustainable digital economy
- Create high-value employment opportunities
Target Demographics
The programme prioritizes:
- Young Nigerians seeking digital skills
- Underserved communities
- Secondary school students through specialized programmes
- Career switchers entering the tech sector
Technology Integration
Raspberry Pi Programme
The ₦50 million Raspberry Pi initiative provides:
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Critical thinking development
- Teamwork skills through collaboration
- Real-world technology exposure
Digital Infrastructure Support
MTN Nigeria’s ₦1.5 billion data grant programme ensures:
- Reliable internet connectivity for learners
- Equal access regardless of location
- Reduced digital divide
- Enhanced learning outcomes
Future Outlook
Expansion Plans
MTN Nigeria’s continued investment will:
- Train more Nigerians in underserved communities
- Provide advanced mentorship programmes
- Expand technology access
- Support global digital transformation
Strategic Positioning
The partnership positions Nigeria to:
Create generational wealth through tech skills
Lead Africa’s digital transformation
Compete in the global technology market
Build sustainable economic growth
