The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stated that the Federal Government’s 3 million Technical Talent (3MTT) program has the potential to elevate the digital and technical skills of young Nigerians to 70% by the conclusion of 2027. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, conveyed this during the City Business News Summit in Lagos.
A recent survey by GetBundi, an online education technology outfit, disclosed that a significant 85% of over 100 million young Nigerians lack digital skills necessary for lucrative job opportunities. However, Maida expressed optimism that the 3MTT program, which kicked off today, would reverse this trend.
He explained that the initiative, aimed at training 3 million Nigerians, could significantly enhance the country’s pool of technically skilled individuals globally, leading to increased engagement of Nigerians by international employers seeking digital and technical expertise.
Addressing the economic impact, Maida, represented by Ismail Adedigba, the Commission’s Director of Research and Development, emphasised that the program, already attracting over 1 million applications, would empower Nigerian youth to contribute productively to the nation’s economy.
He stated that the program’s goal is to boost digital and technical skills in the country, especially among young and mid-level talents, to 70% by 2027, positioning Nigeria favourably in key technological areas globally.
Maida underscored the importance of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s policy direction, driven by five pillars: policy, infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship and capital, trade, and knowledge. These pillars, aligned with the Strategic Vision Plan (2023 – 2025), aim to leverage the potential of the telecommunications sector for economic growth and positive change in Nigeria.
Regarding the summit’s theme, ‘Repositioning Nigerian Economy through Telecommunications: 2023 and Beyond,’ Maida highlighted Nigeria’s vision to embrace technological disruption and foster innovation.
This vision seeks to propel the nation toward sustainable growth, economic diversification, and improved living standards. The plan is to position Nigeria as a global technical talent hub, boost research in key technology areas, and enhance digital literacy across the country.
The Minister aims to create a pipeline of three million technical talents to contribute to this vision. The NCC remains committed to providing the necessary infrastructure for a robust digital economy, ensuring improved broadband connectivity, and efficient spectrum resource management.
