The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with Airtel Nigeria, has opened applications for the 2026 Airtel–3MTT NextGen Fellowship, offering young Nigerians free access to digital skills training, mentorship, and career opportunities in the tech industry.
The Nigerian government, through NITDA, alongside Airtel Nigeria, has launched the 2026 Airtel–3MTT NextGen Fellowship Programme. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to empower youths with practical digital skills and prepare them for emerging opportunities in the global technology ecosystem.
The programme is designed to provide hands-on learning, real-world project experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. Participants will also gain exposure to national competitions and innovation challenges, helping them build confidence and showcase their capabilities.
Where & When:
The fellowship is open to applicants across Nigeria, with the 2026 application portal currently live and accepting entries nationwide.
Who is Involved:
The programme is implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency in collaboration with Airtel Nigeria under the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme.
It is targeted at young Nigerians who are passionate about building a career in technology and are willing to commit to an intensive and structured learning process.
Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand rapidly, creating high demand for skilled tech professionals. However, many young people lack access to quality training and mentorship.
The Airtel–3MTT NextGen Fellowship addresses this gap by providing free, high-quality training in key technology fields, helping participants become job-ready and competitive both locally and globally. It also supports the government’s broader vision of developing a strong digital workforce.
“This fellowship is designed to equip young Nigerians with practical digital skills and connect them with opportunities that will shape their future in the tech ecosystem,” a representative from NITDA stated.
EXTRA DETAILS / SUPPORTING INFO
The fellowship focuses on some of the most in-demand tech fields globally. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong interest in one or more of the following areas:
Software Development
Data Science and Analytics
Cybersecurity
UI/UX Design
Cloud Computing
Product Management
Artificial Intelligence
In addition to technical training, participants will benefit from mentorship, peer collaboration, and access to a growing network of tech professionals and innovators across Nigeria.
The programme also aligns with the Federal Government’s ambition to train millions of Nigerians in digital skills through the 3MTT initiative, positioning the country as a major player in the global digital economy.
OPPORTUNITY / BENEFIT ANGLE
The Airtel–3MTT NextGen Fellowship offers a life-changing opportunity for young Nigerians to gain valuable digital skills without financial barriers.
Participants will not only learn but also gain practical experience that can lead to employment, freelancing opportunities, or even startup creation. With mentorship and exposure to industry standards, fellows are better positioned to secure jobs in Nigeria’s growing tech sector or work remotely for international companies.
This initiative also contributes to reducing unemployment by equipping youths with skills that are relevant in today’s digital world.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested applicants can apply online through the official portal:
Application Link: https://nextgen.3mttnigeria.com/
Eligibility: Open to young Nigerians passionate about technology
Requirement: Willingness to commit to intensive training
How to Apply:
Visit the official application portal
Fill in your personal and educational details
Select your preferred tech skill area
Submit your application
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all information provided is accurate, as multiple or false submissions may lead to disqualification.
With initiatives like this, Nigeria is taking bold steps toward building a digitally skilled workforce, creating new opportunities, and empowering the next generation of tech leaders.