Airtel Nigeria, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, has unveiled the NextGen by Airtel & 3MTT Fellowship, a major initiative aimed at developing Nigeria’s next wave of digital builders and innovators.
The fellowship represents the next chapter of the Airtel–3MTT partnership, expanding on earlier cohorts to deliver more advanced digital training, structured mentorship, and community engagement opportunities. Through 45 learning centres nationwide, the programme will support thousands of young Nigerians as they build skills for high-growth tech careers.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, said the programme exemplifies the potential of public–private collaboration in accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation.
“The NextGen Fellowship is a demonstration of what public–private partnerships can achieve. Airtel’s commitment to this vision is helping us unlock the potential of Nigerian talent at scale — ensuring that the skills we are building today are relevant for the digital economy of tomorrow.”
The fellowship focuses on equipping young Nigerians with in-demand capabilities across software engineering, product design, data analysis, digital marketing, and other high-growth technical fields. Airtel’s existing digital infrastructure and broad national reach will power Applied Learning Centres (ALCs) where fellows will undertake hands-on projects, collaborate within tech communities, and participate in innovation challenges.
In addition to technical training, fellows will access exclusive Airtel masterclasses, hackathons, and community showcases designed to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and industry readiness.
Dinesh Balsingh, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, emphasised Airtel’s commitment to digital empowerment and youth development.
“With this NextGen fellowship, under the 3MTT initiative, we are not just powering connectivity — we are reaffirming our belief that Nigeria’s youth are the true architects of our digital future. Through the NextGen Fellowship, we are creating real pathways for young Nigerians to learn, innovate, and lead.”
According to Airtel, the fellowship will support the training of 25,000 young tech talents across 46 local government areas, covering all 36 states and the FCT. The programme aligns closely with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), which prioritises digital literacy, talent development, and the growth of a competitive innovation ecosystem.
The launch reaffirms Airtel’s long-term investment in youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and workforce development — and strengthens its role as one of the leading private-sector partners enabling Nigeria’s digital economy ambitions.
