FG Launches 3MTT Partner Network, Secures €5m EU Funding to Boost Nigeria’s Digital Talent

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the next phase of its Three Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, unveiling a partner network designed to scale digital skills training and strengthen collaboration between industry and government. The announcement, made at a high-profile event on Thursday, drew representatives from the European Union, Finland, Spain, and leading global tech companies.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr ‘Bosun Tijani, emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s youthful population in driving global technology growth. “When you have a growing population and you’re not putting them to the right use, you risk losing a critical resource,” he said, highlighting the need for strategic investment in human capital.

First introduced in 2023, the 3MTT initiative goes beyond traditional training programmes. According to Dr Tijani, it aims to position Nigeria as a global supplier of tech talent, bridging the widening skills gap in the technology ecosystem. “We are not just training for the local labour market. We are positioning Nigeria as a global talent hub and a partner to the world,” he explained, acknowledging support from key partners including Microsoft, Moniepoint, and Google.

The new 3MTT Partner Network will shift focus from foundational training to industry integration, sustainability, and job placement. It includes a Delivery Partner Network for programme execution and an Affiliate Training Network to expand reach. A major highlight was the announcement of €5 million in funding from the European Union, complemented by an additional €6 million from Denmark, bringing total support to $11 million. Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, described the investment as a strategic commitment to Nigeria’s digital future.

Private sector partners have also demonstrated significant contributions. Airtel Nigeria trained 29,000 participants, including women and persons with disabilities, surpassing its initial target. Microsoft has awarded over 3,500 globally recognized certifications, while the UNDP Jubilee Fellows Programme provides employment opportunities with monthly stipends. Beneficiaries like former teacher Ismail Muhammad Adam and product management trainee Habeebat Adetayo illustrate the programme’s human impact, transitioning into careers in software engineering and human resources. The 3MTT initiative is now emerging as a pivotal driver for digital innovation, talent development, and economic growth in Nigeria.

source: This day