By In a push to boost youth empowerment and digital access, the MTN Foundation has launched its Digital Skills Academy, aimed at training young Nigerians for success in the global tech space. The initiative was unveiled at a well-attended event in Abuja, drawing stakeholders from across government, civil society, and the private sector.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, praised MTN Foundation’s efforts, calling the project “unique and critical” to Nigeria’s digital future. He noted that the academy aligns with national programmes like the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative, and said it holds the potential to position Nigeria as a net exporter of tech talent.
“This programme is about equipping a generation that will drive innovation,” Dr. Tijani said. He stressed the importance of reaching beyond urban areas to ensure rural communities benefit from digital inclusion, adding, “The true promise of a digital Nigeria is one where no one is left behind.”
Simon Aranonu, Director of the MTN Foundation, described the academy as another major step in making digital education accessible to all. Partnering with global platform Coursera, the programme will offer tech-related courses tailored to Nigeria’s development goals. “This platform is our commitment to bridging the gap,” he stated.
Also speaking was Etobi Agun, deputy director at the Ministry of Sports Development, representing Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande. She called the academy a “strategic initiative” that supports youth employment and national growth through innovation. “Digital skills development is central to addressing youth unemployment,” she said.
MTN’s Skills Academy represents a strong example of public-private collaboration aimed at empowering Nigeria’s youthful population. With an average age of 16.9, Nigeria has one of the world’s youngest populations — and this initiative seeks to turn that demographic edge into digital strength.
