Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship Program 2026 | Application Methods

Join the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship Program 2025, a free tech training initiative offering mentorship, project experience, and job placement support in Nigeria. Boost your digital skills today as you apply.

Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship Program 2026 for Nigerian Youths

The Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship Program 2025 represents a transformative opportunity for young Nigerians to acquire world-class digital skills and launch successful tech careers. Detailed explanation about applying to this prestigious fellowship program is given below.

What is the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship?

The NextGen Fellowship is a flagship digital skills training initiative launched through a strategic partnership between Airtel Africa Foundation and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy.

As a special track under the broader 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, this fellowship is designed to identify, train, and empower exceptional young Nigerians with in-demand technical skills.

Built on Airtel’s ₦1 billion digital inclusion commitment, the program supports Nigeria’s mission to develop a future-ready digital workforce and establish the country as a global technology hub. The fellowship is implemented by NITDA and the 3MTT Secretariat, bringing together government and private sector resources to maximize impact.

Read Also: Airtel Africa Scholarship 2025 for Nigerian Undergraduates: Fully Funded Tech Fellowship (Apply Now)

Key Benefits of the NextGen Fellowship

Participants in the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship gain access to an extensive range of career-accelerating opportunities:

Free World-Class Training: Fellows receive expert-led instruction across seven high-demand technology disciplines without paying any tuition fees. The curriculum is delivered by industry professionals through partnership with platforms like Darey.io.

Professional Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced tech leaders at Airtel Africa, NITDA, and the 3MTT Secretariat helps fellows navigate their career paths and develop professional networks.

Hands-On Project Experience: Real-world assignments, group projects, and hackathons build practical portfolios that demonstrate job-ready skills to potential employers.

National Tech Community Access: Fellows join a nationwide network of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Career Placement Support: The program includes externship matching, job placement assistance, and direct access to career opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

Digital Credentials: Participants earn recognized certificates and digital badges that strengthen their professional profiles and validate their technical competencies.

Seven Tech Skills Covered in the Fellowship

The NextGen Fellowship offers comprehensive training in seven critical technology domains:

1. Software Development: Learn programming languages, application development, and software engineering best practices for building scalable solutions.
2. Data Science and Analytics: Master data collection, analysis, visualization, and interpretation techniques to drive business insights.
3. UI/UX Design: Develop user-centered design thinking, prototyping skills, and interface design capabilities for creating intuitive digital experiences.
4. Cloud Computing: Gain expertise in cloud platforms, infrastructure management, and cloud-native application development.
5. Product Management: Learn to manage product lifecycles, conduct market research, and bridge technical and business requirements.
6. Cybersecurity: Build skills in network security, threat detection, ethical hacking, and information security management.
7. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Explore AI algorithms, machine learning models, and data-driven automation techniques.

Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Fellowship

To qualify for the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship, applicants must meet these straightforward criteria:

• Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen
• Age Group: Young Nigerians (typically 18-35 years, though the program emphasizes “young” talent)
• Career Interest: Demonstrated passion for building a digital or technical career in software development, data science, cybersecurity, UI/UX design, cloud computing, product management, or artificial intelligence
• Commitment Level: Full dedication to completing the entire fellowship learning journey, including assessments, projects, and mentorship sessions
• Prior Experience: No previous technical experience required, making this ideal for career switchers and beginners

The fellowship welcomes learners, job seekers, creators, innovators, and professionals transitioning into technology careers.

Three Flexible Learning Models

The NextGen Fellowship accommodates different learning preferences and geographical locations through three distinct models:

Hybrid Learning (ALC-Based): Combines online instruction via Darey.io with in-person sessions at local Applied Learning Centres (ALCs) across 45 locations nationwide. This model offers the best balance of flexibility and community engagement.

Peer-Led Learning: Team-based collaborative learning designed for areas without established ALCs. Fellows work together in study groups with remote guidance from mentors.

Virtual Learning: 100% online format with weekly learning goals, digital resources, and virtual mentorship for maximum flexibility. Ideal for those with limited mobility or conflicting schedules.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying to the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship is straightforward and completely online:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Navigate to the application website at https://nextgen.3mttnigeria.com/ or the direct application link at https://app.3mtt.training/apply.

Step 2: Create Your Account
Register using your email address, phone number, and basic personal information. Ensure all details are accurate and complete.

Step 3: Select Your Track
Choose your preferred technology track from the seven available options based on your interests and career goals.

Step 4: Complete the Online Assessment
Take the aptitude test that evaluates your interest and baseline understanding of digital technology concepts. The assessment focuses on potential rather than existing expertise, so approach it honestly without extensive preparation.

Step 5: Submit Your Application
Review all information for accuracy before final submission. Successful completion of these steps places you in the selection pool.

Step 6: Wait for Selection Results
Top performers in the assessment will be invited to join the NextGen cohort. Selection is based on assessment performance and available cohort capacity.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

Applications for the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship 2025 are currently open. While no specific closing date has been announced, experts recommend applying within the first month of the application window to maximize your chances of selection. The program operates on a rolling admission basis with limited spots available.

Given the high demand for quality tech training in Nigeria, early application is strongly advised. Monitor the official website and social media channels for updates on application deadlines and cohort announcements.

What Happens After Selection

Fellows selected for the program can expect a comprehensive learning journey:

• Orientation: Introduction to the fellowship structure, learning platforms, and community guidelines
• Core Training: Structured curriculum delivery through chosen learning model
• Project Work: Hands-on assignments and collaborative projects
• Mentorship Sessions: Regular one-on-one and group mentoring
• Innovation Challenges: Opportunities to showcase skills through competitions and hackathons
• Career Support: Externship placements, job matching, and career counseling
• Certification: Digital badges and certificates upon successful completion

Partnership and Implementation

The fellowship represents a powerful collaboration between multiple stakeholders committed to Nigeria’s digital transformation:

• Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy: Provides policy support and national coordination
• Airtel Africa Foundation: Contributes ₦1 billion in funding and technical resources
• NITDA: Implements the technical aspects of the program
• 3MTT Secretariat: Manages daily operations and fellow support

This multi-stakeholder approach ensures comprehensive support for fellows throughout their learning journey.

Impact on Nigeria’s Digital Economy

The Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship directly supports Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS). By training thousands of young Nigerians in high-demand technology skills, the program addresses critical talent gaps in the digital sector and positions Nigeria as a competitive player in the global technology marketplace.

Fellows graduating from this program will contribute to digital transformation initiatives across government, private sector, and entrepreneurial ventures, ultimately accelerating economic growth and innovation throughout Nigeria.

Why This Fellowship Matters

In an increasingly digital world, technology skills represent the foundation of economic opportunity. The Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship removes financial and geographical barriers to quality tech education, ensuring that talent and determination.

Whether you are a recent graduate, career switcher, or aspiring entrepreneur, this fellowship provides the skills, connections, and credentials needed to thrive in Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Airtel-3MTT NextGen Fellowship completely free?

Yes, the fellowship is 100% free for all participants. There are no tuition fees, application fees, or hidden charges. Airtel Africa Foundation has committed ₦1 billion to fund the training, mentorship, and support services for fellows. All learning materials, assessments, and certification are provided at no cost to participants.

2. Do I need prior tech experience to apply for the fellowship?

No prior technical experience or coding knowledge is required to apply. The fellowship is specifically designed to welcome beginners, career switchers, and anyone with genuine interest in building a digital career.

The online assessment evaluates your potential and commitment rather than existing technical skills. However, demonstrated passion for technology and willingness to learn intensively are essential.

3. Can I participate in the fellowship while working or studying?

Yes, the fellowship offers flexible learning models to accommodate different schedules. The virtual learning option is 100% online with self-paced modules and weekly goals, making it suitable for working professionals and students.

The hybrid and peer-led models also offer flexibility, though they may require some in-person attendance at scheduled times. You should be prepared to dedicate significant time weekly to coursework and projects regardless of your chosen model.

4. How long does the NextGen Fellowship program last?

While the exact duration has not been publicly specified, most comprehensive tech training programs under the 3MTT initiative typically run for several months (usually 3-6 months) of intensive learning.

5. What are my chances of getting a job after completing the fellowship?

The fellowship is designed with employment outcomes as a primary goal. Fellows receive dedicated career support including externship matching, job placement assistance, and direct connections to employers actively seeking tech talent.

6. Can I choose more than one tech track in the fellowship?

The application process typically requires selecting one primary track that aligns with your career interests. This focused approach ensures you develop deep expertise in your chosen field rather than surface-level knowledge across multiple areas.

7. What happens if I’m not selected in the first application round?

If you’re not selected initially, you can typically reapply in future cohorts as the fellowship continues to admit new participants.

Use the time between application rounds to strengthen your profile by engaging in self-study, participating in online coding challenges, joining tech communities, or building small projects.

The 3MTT program is ongoing with multiple cohorts planned, so persistence can pay off. This is a very vital opportunity to seize. Apply now for it.