…Says $1trn economy ‘ll  be driven by productivity, innovation, globally competitive workforce

President Tinubu has described  the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme as a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that Nigeria’s greatest resource lies not in natural commodities but in the innovation, creativity and potential of its young people.

He stated this while addressing key stakeholders at the 3MTT Nigeria National Impact Summit held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to buil his dream team if youth who are globally competitive digital workforce.

He further that Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy hinges squarely on boosting productivity, deepening innovation and developing a workforce equipped with skills that meet global standards.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, noted that in a world reshaped by rapid technological change, the nations that lead are those that strategically develop the skills of their young people. 

He noted that Nigeria, must continue to treat human capital as its most valuable resource under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He maintained that digital skills now power growth across key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, education and public service, making programmes like the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative essential to the administration’s economic transformation blueprint.

 “A strong digital workforce creates jobs, expands enterprise and positions Nigeria to participate competitively in the global marketplace. More importantly, it shifts our role in the world from passive consumers of technology to active creators and exporters of talent.”

The President commended  the 3MTT programme as proof of what focus and disciplined execution can achieve. 

From more than 1.8 million applications drawn from every local government area to new startups and job opportunities emerging nationwide, he said the initiative has moved from concept to measurable impact across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“Opportunity is no longer limited to major cities,” he added, noting that the programme is restoring confidence among young Nigerians that they can compete and thrive in the global digital economy.

Tinubu also praised the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy for stewarding the programme and acknowledged key private-sector and development partners, including IHS Towers, MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Google, Microsoft, Huawei, Moniepoint, the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union, for giving the initiative depth and credibility.

While applauding the progress so far, the President said Nigeria must stay committed to the larger vision of transforming digital and technical skills nationwide. 

This, he emphasised, will require continued collaboration among government, industry and development partners.

“To the young Nigerians gathered here, and to the millions you represent across every community in our nation, we believe in your capacity and your future. Through initiatives like 3MTT, we are building genuine platforms for progress, not ceremonial commitments”, he said.

Tinubu reaffirmed that the Nigeria of the future must be powered by skilled hands and driven by innovative minds ready to work, create and lead, adding that the government is determined to lay a strong foundation for a digital workforce that will propel the country’s next chapter of growth and shared prosperity.

Earlier in his opening address. minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani highlighted major Strides in Digital Infrastructure, Talent Development and National Innovation Agenda.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation and expanding opportunities for citizens through enhanced infrastructure, skills development and policy reforms.

 Dr. Tijani highlighted the landmark progress driven under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the administration’s focus remains centered on delivering tangible benefits to the average Nigerian.

According to him, Nigeria now boasts the largest fibre-optic network on the continent, with over 90,000 kilometres of national fibre designed to deliver fast and reliable connectivity to every corner of the country. He further noted that the designation of telecommunications facilities as Critical National Infrastructure has strengthened protection around key assets, boosted investor confidence and contributed to the renewed profitability of Nigeria’s telecom operators.

Dr. Tijani also announced major strides in expanding rural connectivity, with plans to deploy 4,000 new telecom towers to underserved communities. This initiative, he said, will accelerate digital inclusion, stimulate grassroots economic activity and support the administration’s goal of creating one million technology jobs.

On talent development, the Minister celebrated the rapid growth and nationwide impact of the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, which has attracted 1.8 million applications in less than a month. He highlighted the strong partnerships powering the programme, including contributions from MTN, Airtel, IHS Towers, Google, Microsoft, Huawei, Moniepoint, and others, with a combined investment exceeding ₦10 billion in training, infrastructure and digital resources.

“With 30,000 young Nigerians trained in the first phase alone, 3MTT has demonstrated the potential of precision delivery and collaborative execution,” he said. “This programme reflects our belief that Nigeria can develop a globally competitive digital workforce capable of driving innovation and economic transformation.”

The representative of EU said, “The European Union is proud to support Nigeria’s digital transformation through the 3MTT program, committing €30 million (approximately ₦22 billion) to drive ICT skills acquisition and digital infrastructure development. “The EU sees the 3MTT program as central to Nigeria’s digital growth, empowering youth and driving economic ties between Nigeria and the EU.” 

He stated that, in an era defined by rapid technological advancement, countries that thrive are those that intentionally invest in digital and technical skills. This, he noted, is central to Nigeria’s ambition of building a one trillion-dollar economy anchored on productivity, innovation and world-class talent.

On his part, the  representative of UNDP, said, “Nigeria is making history with the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, driven by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for reform and national transformation. “This program is empowering young Nigerians with technical skills, aligning with the UN’s focus on youth empowerment and digital transformation.

“The UN sees the 3MTT program as a key part of Nigeria’s future, focusing on confidence, competitiveness, and opportunity for young Nigerians.”