The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened applications for the 2026 Digital Training Academy (DTA), a fully sponsored skills development initiative targeting 32,000 Nigerians seeking digital and professional skills for the modern economy.

The programme is being delivered under the Federal Government’s National Skilling Project in partnership with Coursera, giving selected participants free access to relevant online learning programmes. Applications opened on August 17, 2026.

The Digital Training Academy will provide successful applicants with training across more than 10 high-demand digital and technology areas. These include Software Development, Cloud Technologies, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, IT Automation, FinTech, Connected Technologies, Parallel Computing, Quantum Computing and Natural Language Processing (NLP).

Participants will also have access to structured learning pathways, pre-assessment, Coursera learning resources and certificates after meeting the applicable programme completion requirements.

To make the programme accessible to Nigerians who may lack personal computers or dependable internet connectivity, designated training centres will provide internet access and learning devices for participants.

The programme is open to Nigerian citizens aged 18 and above. Students, job seekers and working professionals interested in building digital skills are eligible to apply.

Applicants are required to provide a valid National Identification Number (NIN), an active phone number, basic information about their educational and employment background, as well as details about their career interests and goals.

Advanced knowledge of a selected training field is not a requirement. Applicants will undergo a pre-assessment to establish their existing skill level and determine the appropriate learning pathway.

Applicants can register through the official Digital Training Academy portal.

The application process begins with creating an account using a NIN and phone number. Applicants must then complete their profiles with their personal, education, and work information before selecting their preferred learning track.

After selecting a track, applicants are required to complete the pre-assessment and wait for their assessment and admission outcome. Those admitted can then begin their sponsored training.

The 2026 Digital Training Academy is sponsored by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with Coursera serving as the learning partner. The programme is targeting 32,000 Nigerians aged 18 and above and is fully sponsored.

Training will primarily be delivered online, with support from physical training centres. The programme will cover all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while applicants must have a NIN and an active phone number. Certificates will be available upon successful completion.

The initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s wider efforts to address Nigeria’s digital skills gap and expand access to technology-focused education and career opportunities.

How to Apply

Interested Nigerians can apply through the official Digital Training Academy portal:

Apply for the Digital Training Academy 2026

Source: MSME Africa Online