LLD Launches Nigeria’s First Gov-Tech Fellowship Programme to Drive Digital Transformation in Government

Locally Led Development (LLD) is delighted to announce the launch of Nigeria's first-ever Gov-Tech Fellowship Programme. This is a transformative initiative designed to strategically invest in the professional development of experienced civil servants, empowering them to become the driving force behind Nigeria’s digital governance. Applications are currently open for the inaugural cohort of twenty-five fellows, set to commence in January 2026.

Mission: Building Capacity from Within
The mission of the LLD Gov-Tech Fellowship is straightforward: to equip public servants with cutting-edge technology skills to champion innovation, transparency, and efficiency across government institutions. LLD recognises that while digital transformation is accelerating across the government, many institutions lack the necessary personnel with the technical expertise to successfully design, implement, and manage modern GovTech solutions. The programme addresses this critical gap by empowering those who already understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the Nigerian context.

The goal is not simply to teach skills, but to create a new generation of technology-empowered public sector leaders. By investing in experienced officials, LLD aims to build a sustainable capacity for innovation that originates from within the government institutions themselves.

Eligibility and The Application Process
The Fellowship is deliberately structured to select committed public servants who are ready to drive meaningful change in government through the use of technology. The opportunity is open to civil servants currently employed at the local, state, or federal government levels.
To be eligible, applicants must have a minimum of three years of government experience. Crucially, candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest in technology applications, evidenced through their previous work experience, professional training, or relevant projects. All applicants must also be proficient in English, as all instruction will be delivered in English.
Interested candidates can review the full eligibility criteria, explore the programme curriculum, and submit their applications through the designated online portal. The deadline for the inaugural January – April 2026 cohort is November 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM WAT.

Following this initial intake, a second cohort will run from July through October 2026, offering twenty-five additional positions to qualified applicants.
Programme Benefits and Curriculum

The four-month intensive programme is a blend of expert-led training, practical project experience, and dedicated professional mentorship. Recognising the demands on a civil servant’s time, the fellowship employs a blended learning format where 90% of instruction is delivered remotely. Fellows will commit approximately four hours per week to coursework.

The robust curriculum is developed and delivered by a team of Nigerian and international GovTech leaders, policy experts, and LLD's experienced staff. It covers critical areas necessary for contemporary digital governance, including digital service delivery, data governance, cybersecurity, e-governance platforms, and technology procurement. The programme culminates in an intensive two-week period dedicated to the development and presentation of capstone projects that directly address real digital governance challenges facing Nigeria.

Each fellow will benefit significantly from one-on-one mentorship provided by experienced GovTech practitioners and will gain access to a professional network of forward-thinking innovators across Nigeria’s public sector.
Impact Goals: The Catalyst for Digital Transformation

The long-term impact of this fellowship extends far beyond the four-month period. Graduates will join the established LLD Alumni Network, ensuring ongoing peer collaboration and access to advanced certification pathways. This network will position them as continuous innovators and offer consulting opportunities on LLD government projects, alongside priority consideration for senior GovTech leadership positions.

Selected fellows will also be provided with opportunities for international exchanges and study tours, connecting Nigeria’s digital governance initiatives to global best practices.
The twenty-five individuals selected for the first cohort represent more than just trainees; they are being groomed to become catalysts for change within their respective agencies and mentors for future colleagues. With two cohorts scheduled per year, the LLD Gov-Tech Fellowship is set to create a rapidly growing community of technology-enabled public servants who are strategically positioned to lead and sustain Nigeria’s digital governance transformation for years to come. This programme is a fundamental commitment by Locally Led Development to ensure that Nigeria’s digital future is truly locally led, contextually appropriate, and sustainably impactful.