The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has expressed confidence that the Nigerian Government’s 3 million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme has the potential to increase the digital and technical skills of young Nigerians by 70% by the end of 2027. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, shared this perspective at the City Business News Summit in Lagos.
A recent survey by GetBundi revealed that over 100 million young Nigerians, constituting 85%, lack the digital skills necessary for modern job opportunities. Dr. Maida believes that the 3MTT programme, aiming to train 3 million Nigerians, will address this gap. He stated that the programme could enhance Nigeria’s pool of technically skilled individuals, making them attractive to potential international employers in the digital and technical sectors.
Represented by Ismail Adedigba, the Commission’s Director of Research and Development, Maida emphasised that the 3MTT programme would empower Nigerian youths to contribute productively to the nation’s economy. The programme, already attracting over 1 million applications, aims to elevate digital and technical skills among Nigerians, particularly young and middle-level talents, to 70% by the end of 2027.
Maida highlighted the strategic plan under the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, led by Dr. Bosun Tijani. The plan is guided by five pillars: policy, infrastructure, innovation, entrepreneurship, and capital; trade; and knowledge. This strategic vision aims to position Nigeria as a global technical talent hub and foster economic growth through the telecommunications sector.
In line with the theme of the summit, ‘Repositioning Nigerian Economy through Telecommunications: 2023 and Beyond,’ Maida emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to embracing technological disruption and fostering innovation for sustainable growth, economic diversification, and improved living standards.
The NCC remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment for critical infrastructure development, ensuring quality broadband connectivity, and efficiently managing the nation’s spectrum resources in support of the digital economy.
