• MTN Nigeria launched a 100 million naira startup accelerator starting September

• The 12-week program offers funding, mentorship, and tech access

•  It supports MTN’s broader push for digital skills and innovation in Africa

MTN Nigeria opened applications on Wednesday, July 2, for its "From Africa, for Africa" accelerator program, set to begin in September. Backed by a 100 million naira fund (approximately $65,200), the 12-week initiative targets high-potential startups across sectors such as fintech, agritech, health, education, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The program offers comprehensive support, including funding, mentorship, access to MTN’s tech tools, and a network of experts and investors.

This move aligns with MTN Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation. The company has pledged 3 billion naira to the government-led "3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT)" program, which has already trained over 90,000 Nigerians in digital skills, according to initial reports. At the launch, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, described the initiative as "a launchpad to greatness," emphasizing its reliance on MTN’s cloud infrastructure to help drive Africa’s digital future.

The program combines in-person sessions in Lagos with virtual workshops. It begins and concludes with physical gatherings, while the intervening weeks focus on online workshops, product design sprints, and tailored mentorship. Selected startups gain privileged access to MTN’s tech infrastructure, including its Cloud services, MoMo APIs, and data analytics tools. Commercial and marketing guidance rounds out the offering, leading up to a final demo day where startups pitch to investors and partners.

The program’s success will depend on the diversity of selected startups and their ability to generate sustainable jobs, particularly in rural and underserved markets. It enters a growing field of tech accelerators in Africa, alongside established players like Google for Startups Accelerator Africa and the ASIP program by Telecel-Startupbootcamp AfriTech, both of which report retention rates of nearly 90%.

To maximize impact, closer coordination with public training and employment policies will be essential. Additionally, rigorous outcome tracking will be key to fine-tuning support and confirming the role of such initiatives in building a resilient, inclusive African tech ecosystem.

Written in French by Félicien Houindo Lokossou (Intern),

Translated and adapted into English by Mouka Mezonlin