President Tinubu reaffirms digital workforce commitment at 3MTT Summit

At the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) National Impact Summit, held Thursday, December 11, at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu restated his administration’s commitment to building a future-ready digital workforce capable of driving innovation and prosperity towards making Nigeria a $1 trillion economy.

The summit, convened by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Dr ‘Bosun Tijani, celebrated the impact of the 3MTT Programme, which has trained thousands of young Nigerians in high-demand digital skills since its launch in 2023.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu emphasised the critical role of digital skills in achieving the nation’s economic ambitions.

Our ambition to build a trillion-dollar economy will not be achieved by chance. It requires productivity, innovation and a workforce whose skills meet global standards. Digital skills now underpin growth across every major sector of our economy, including agriculture, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education and public service,” the President said in his keynote address.

He described digital skills as essential not only for economic stability and growth but also as a significant source of job creation for Nigeria’s youth population.

“A strong digital workforce creates jobs, expands enterprise and positions Nigeria to participate competitively in the global marketplace. More importantly, it shapes our role in the world.

“From passive consumers of technology to active creators and exporters of talent, the 3MTT program will unlock opportunities, empower young people and strengthen our long-term economic prospects,” President Tinubu added.

The Summit brought together state governors, cabinet ministers, diplomatic representatives, industry leaders, and development partners, all unified by a shared vision to scale digital skills development and foster inclusive economic growth.

Attendees witnessed testimonials from 3MTT Fellows whose skills have led to job placements, startup creation, and expanded local innovation.

In his remarks, Dr Tijani characterised talent development as critical infrastructure for national development.

“What we are doing with 3MTT is rewriting the story of opportunity in Nigeria. When you train people at scale and give them pathways into real work, you unlock hope, innovation, and dignity. The fellows we celebrate today prove that talent exists everywhere in this country, and our duty as Government is to continue creating platforms that allow it to shine,” the minister said.

He also talked about the support of the president:

“I am deeply grateful to H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in ensuring that young Nigerians are equipped to compete and thrive in the global digital economy,” he added.

3MTT programme expansion announced

At the event, the ministry unveiled the next phase of the 3MTT Programme, focused on deepening state-level collaboration, expanding training hubs, and accelerating pathways into employment and entrepreneurship.

Fellows from across the six geopolitical zones shared stories of resilience, impact, and ambition, underscoring the programme’s inclusive approach and its role in bridging the national digital divide.