Airtel Nigeria, through the Airtel Africa Foundation, has opened applications for the 2026/2027 Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship. This undergraduate scholarship targets high-performing students pursuing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and related technology degrees at selected Nigerian universities. The programme aims to expand access to quality tech education, reduce financial barriers, and help build Africa’s digital workforce.
The fellowship forms part of a broader pan-African initiative by the Airtel Africa Foundation. It supports talented young people particularly those from lower-income backgrounds with financial assistance, mentorship, and career pathways so they can complete their studies and enter the technology sector. As of early 2026, the wider programme had already awarded hundreds of scholarships across Airtel Africa markets, with ambitions to support more than 1,000 students by 2030.
Key Details at a Glance
- Number of beneficiaries: 100 undergraduate students in Nigeria
- Duration of support: From 100 level through to final year (subject to continued eligibility and academic performance)
- Application status: Open
- Deadline: Monday, 7 December 2026 applicants should verify the exact closing date on the live form and apply early
- Selection: Conducted by independent management consultants
Eligible Courses
The fellowship focuses on technology-related programmes. Commonly listed eligible fields include:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Systems Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Other related technology fields (confirm exact eligibility on the application portal)
Participating Universities
Support is available to students at these 12 institutions:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
Benefits
Successful fellows typically receive a package that can include:
- Tuition support / financial assistance toward university fees
- Stipends during their studies
- Mentorship from technology professionals and industry leaders
- Support for essential study needs and learning materials
The wider Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship programme description also highlights fuller support in some cohorts (tuition, accommodation, learning materials, stipend, laptop, and connectivity), plus career readiness training, internship pathways within Airtel Africa or partner organisations, and access to an alumni network. Exact benefits for the 2026/2027 Nigeria intake should be confirmed on the official application portal.
Continued support depends on maintaining the required academic standards and meeting programme conditions.
Who Can Apply
- Undergraduate students enrolled (or seeking support from 100 level) in eligible technology-related programmes
- Students at one of the listed participating Nigerian universities
- High-performing applicants (specific CGPA, JAMB, or other thresholds are not always detailed in public announcements—check the portal for precise criteria)
The programme is framed around supporting access for high-potential students, with emphasis on those who may face financial barriers.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal using the Link provided 👉 Here
- Review the full eligibility requirements, participating institutions, and any required documents.
- Complete the online form with accurate personal, academic, and institutional details.
- Submit before the deadline and retain any confirmation.
Always use the official link and avoid third-party sites that request payment. There is typically no application fee associated with legitimate Foundation processes.
Why This Matters
Nigeria and the broader African continent face a growing demand for skilled technology professionals. Initiatives like the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship help close the gap by removing financial obstacles and pairing academic support with mentorship and industry exposure. For eligible students, it offers a structured pathway from university into careers that can contribute to the digital economy.
Interested students are encouraged to apply early, carefully check the live portal for the precise deadline and requirements, and prepare any supporting documents in advance. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Airtel Africa Foundation Tech Fellowship pages and the official 2026/2027 Nigeria application form.
This opportunity reflects ongoing private-sector investment in Nigeria’s tech talent pipeline and is worth serious consideration for qualifying undergraduates.
