Over 60,000 participants have successfully graduated from the Federal Government’s Three Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, an initiative aimed at advancing Nigeria’s digital economy and positioning the country as a leader in digital skills development.

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, made the announcement on Friday during the 3MTT Community Impact Summit in Abuja, which celebrated the achievements of the graduating fellows and highlighted the programme’s milestones in empowering young Nigerians with technical expertise.

Tijani praised the diverse backgrounds of the graduates, noting that their collective energy and determination have allowed them to acquire new skills, build networks, and positively impact their communities. “This cohort of over 60,000 fellows is a testament to the energy, drive, and ingenuity of young Nigerians,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the graduates’ potential to lead Nigeria’s innovation and technology sectors, emphasizing their critical role in accelerating the country’s digital transformation. “I look forward to seeing our fellows at the forefront of innovation and technology as we work to grow our digital economy,” Tijani added.

The 3MTT programme, launched in 2022, aims to produce three million technically proficient individuals over four years, with a focus on fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies. The first cohort, which graduated in 2023, surpassed its target by graduating 31,270 fellows.

In a related development, Tijani also announced a N1bn funding commitment from IHS Towers, a digital infrastructure company, to support the initiative over the next three years. This funding will help cover the salaries of 37 learning community managers across Nigeria.

The government’s goal is to empower young Nigerians with cutting-edge digital skills, drive economic growth, and ensure Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy.