Draft:3MTT
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| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | October 2023 |
| Jurisdiction | Federal Government of Nigeria |
| Headquarters | Abuja, Nigeria |
| Minister responsible |
|
| Parent department | Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy |
| Website | 3mtt.nitda.gov.ng |
The 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme is a Nigerian government initiative launched in October 2023 to train three million Nigerians in technical and digital skills by 2027.[1] It is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).[2]
Objectives and scope
[edit]The main goal of the 3MTT Programme is to build Nigeria's digital workforce by training young Nigerians in twelve high-demand skill areas, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine learning, Data Science, UI/UX design, Cloud computing, Cybersecurity, Software engineering, and Game development.[3] The project envisions Nigeria becoming a net exporter of tech talent by 2027.[4]
The programme is structured in phases. The first phase began in December 2023 with 30,000 fellows across Nigeria's 36 states and the FCT.[5] The second phase commenced in February 2024 with a target of training 270,000 fellows in three cohorts of 60,000, 90,000, and 120,000 trainees.[6]
Implementation and partnerships
[edit]The programme operates a hybrid model that combines self-paced online learning with physical, instructor-led sessions. Over 120 organizations—including universities, tech hubs, and NGOs—serve as training partners across the country.[7] To support inclusion, the ministry partnered with IHS Nigeria to establish physical learning communities across all states, offering regular collaborative sessions and project development hubs.[4]
The initiative also facilitated ₦5 billion in financing for devices such as laptops and tablets, which participants can pay for in installments over 12 months.[8] Massive open online course (MOOC) providers were contracted to deliver world-class digital education through the platform.[9]
Milestones and events
[edit]As of May 2024, over 1.8 million applications had been received from Nigerians in all 774 local governments.[10] In March 2024, Obafemi Awolowo University hosted a major training hub where students received hands-on coaching in software development and data analytics.[11]
Criticisms and challenges
[edit]Despite its wide reach, the programme has faced logistical and financial challenges. In April 2024, training partners reported delays in payment and a lack of clarity regarding project funding from the ministry.[12] The ₦20,000 allocated per trainee has been described as insufficient by some implementing partners, who cite high operational costs.[13]
Dropout rates have also been a concern. In Katsina State, only 400 out of 1,400 selected participants completed the first cohort due to low digital literacy and community misconceptions.[14]
Impact and future prospects
[edit]The 3MTT Programme plays a strategic role in Nigeria's journey toward a digital economy, contributing to national targets for job creation and youth empowerment. Experts have noted that if properly implemented, the programme could address the country's unemployment crisis and make Nigeria a global player in digital service exports.[15]
Policymakers and development partners have recommended stronger alignment between the Ministry of Communications and other ministries such as Labour and Education to sustain momentum and integrate talent into the economy.[16]
See also
[edit]
- National Information Technology Development Agency
- Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy
References
[edit]- ^ "3MTT Initiative". National Information Technology Development Agency. Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda". Premium Times. 2023-06-01.
- ^ "About the 3MTT Programme". NITDA. Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ a b "Federal Ministry Launches 3MTT Learning Community with IHS Nigeria". 2023-11-28.
- ^ "3MTT Kicks Off with 30,000 Fellows". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "3MTT Second Phase Targets 270,000 Fellows". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Training Partner List". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Device Financing Plan for 3MTT Fellows". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Learning Curriculum". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "1.8 Million Apply for 3MTT". 2024-04-10.
- ^ "OAU Hosts Tech Talent Training". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "3MTT Faces Challenges in Funding and Partner Management". 5 May 2024. Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Partners Critique 3MTT Funding". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Dropout Rates in Katsina Raise Concerns for 3MTT". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Experts Discuss Impact of 3MTT". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
- ^ "Stakeholders Call for Multi-Sectoral Coordination". Retrieved 2025-05-26.
External links
[edit]- Official 3MTT Programme Website
- Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy
- National Information Technology Development Agency