MTN Nigeria has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 Global Graduate Development Programme, a unique initiative designed to identify, develop, and accelerate top young talents across Africa and the Middle East.
According to MTN Nigeria, the programme aims to provide an outstanding experience that fast-tracks high-performing graduates into key roles within the company. “MTN’s Global Graduate Development Programme seeks to source, develop, and accelerate top graduates from across MTN’s footprint in Africa and the Middle East. The programme offers a privileged experience that fast-tracks talented individuals into critical roles at MTN,” the company stated.
The programme offers participants both formal and on-the-job development opportunities. Through the MTN Academy, graduates will receive formal training at the company’s three regional learning centres located in Southern, Northern, and Western Africa. The training modules will include blended learning experiences such as metaphoric immersive sessions, exposure to digital and media platforms, and engagement through social media channels.
On-the-job development will take place within MTN’s local operations, where graduates will gain valuable experience through job rotation, in-role exposure, and mentorship. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with executive committees and receive direct coaching to help shape their careers.
MTN explained that the programme provides graduates with a unique career path that combines global exposure, structured learning, and hands-on experience. “The MTN Graduate Development Programme offers top graduates a bespoke development and significant employment experience in a company that has and continues to shape this continent,” the company added.
The telecommunications leader also outlined key requirements for interested applicants. Candidates must have graduated with a minimum of Second Class Upper Division (2:1) or HND Upper Credit no earlier than 2023 and must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by September 2025 with a valid certificate. Applicants must also be fluent in English and possess a valid international passport.
Some of the required skills include partnership and business development, digital marketing, analytical ability, technology security, excellent communication, and research skills. Candidates should also demonstrate teamwork, relationship-building capacity, and proficiency in Microsoft suite applications.
In terms of behavioural competencies, MTN emphasized that successful applicants must exhibit the company’s core values of leadership, innovation, relationships, integrity, and a can-do attitude. They should also show accountability, collaboration, and openness in their work approach.
Benefits of the programme include international exchange or secondment opportunities, mentorship, structured personal development, training, and community development initiatives.
The application deadline for the MTN Global Graduate Development Programme – Nigeria 2026 is November 14, 2025. Interested and qualified candidates can apply online through the official application portal Link. MTN noted that all applicants must be Nigerian citizens who have completed their NYSC and hold a valid international passport.