Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
As Nigeria boldly advances its digital transformation agenda, the partnership between Microsoft Nigeria and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme stands as a powerful example of what is possible when vision meets action.
Under the leadership of Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, 3MTT is equipping millions of young Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in high-demand digital careers, from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity to data science and software development; and Microsoft Nigeria, a long-standing advocate for digital inclusion and workforce readiness, deeply shares this vision.
Since joining forces with the 3MTT initiative, Microsoft has backed impactful programs that reach learners where it matters most – with access, opportunity, and a clear path to employment. From funding AI certification vouchers worth over ₦1 billion to providing thousands of LinkedIn Premium accounts that open doors to global job opportunities, Microsoft’s investments are not only strategic, they are truly impactful.
Most recently, both partners co-hosted the Career & Employability Fair in Lagos (July 15-17), where 3MTT-trained tech talent connected with leading recruiters for interviews, networking, and career workshops. For many, it wasn’t just a fair; it was their first step into Nigeria’s tech workforce.
Microsoft has also launched a Train-the-Trainer AI initiative, building a nationwide network of certified instructors to scale learning in both urban and rural communities. With hubs across 10 regions and hundreds of trainers in the pipeline, this model ensures that the impact of the partnership reaches every corner of Nigeria.
Earlier this year, over 7,000 Nigerian youth joined the LinkedIn Premium AI Challenge, earning exclusive Microsoft-backed rewards and career support. This was yet another example of how this partnership is more than training; it’s empowerment at scale. The AI Skilling Program alone is set to train 1 million Nigerians by 2026, part of Microsoft’s $1 million commitment to digital education in Nigeria.
