The Nigerian government has launched applications for the fifth cohort of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Delivery Network, offering N4 billion to organisations that train citizens and link them to jobs. Minister of Communications Bosun Tijani announced the opening on November 11, 2026, via his social media account. Punch reported that the funds are backed by the European Union and Denmark through GIZ, HAUS, and ESTDEV, with additional support from the MacArthur Foundation. Nairametrics confirmed the ministry’s statement in Abuja, noting the money supports Cohorts 5 and 6. The programme aims to move beyond simple training numbers to address specific industry needs.
Partnerships fall into two categories: Enabled and Funded. Enabled Partners gain national recognition and access to shared digital infrastructure. Funded Partners receive money based on successful participant outcomes, not just course completion. Tijani explained that experts can join as Enabled Partners if they provide training, regardless of physical space. Organisations that secure verified opportunities for fellows can apply as Funded Partners, either alone or in groups. Payments depend on four metrics: learning start, skill verification, job acquisition, and six-month retention.
Eligibility extends to global experts, but lead applicants must be Nigerian-registered entities. The application portal is delivery.3mtt.gov.ng. Tijani stated that building a workforce capable of operating at scale requires an ecosystem that meets industry demand and reaches communities nationwide. He called the current phase a key milestone. The EU’s Massimo De Luca added that supporting young Nigerians turns talent into employment. The ministry also invites employers and research bodies to the wider partner network.
Applications close at 11:59 pm on November 30, 2026, West Africa Time. Reviews occur quarterly. This follows previous job placements for 117,000 fellows in August 2025 and 30,000 in June 2024. Tijani emphasized that tying support to verified demand strengthens the link between skills and economic opportunity. The initiative seeks to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global digital economy by connecting trained individuals to freelance, internship, or business roles that exceed the national minimum wage.