MacArthur Foundation unveils ‘Nigeria Next’ initiative
The MacArthur Foundation has unveiled Nigeria Next, a new programme aimed at empowering young Nigerians through digital inclusion, innovation, civic engagement, and evidence-based policymaking. The announcement, published on the Foundation’s website on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, places Nigeria’s youth at the centre of efforts to drive social and economic transformation. Between 2016 and 2024, the […]
MacArthur Foundation
The MacArthur Foundation has unveiled Nigeria Next, a new programme aimed at empowering young Nigerians through digital inclusion, innovation, civic engagement, and evidence-based policymaking.
The announcement, published on the Foundation’s website on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, places Nigeria’s youth at the centre of efforts to drive social and economic transformation.
Between 2016 and 2024, the Foundation funded the On Nigeria Project, which focused on promoting transparency and accountability in governance. The initiative sought to strengthen democratic institutions and curb corruption, laying the groundwork for the Foundation’s renewed focus on youth development.
With Nigeria Next, the Foundation is shifting attention to Nigeria’s growing youth population. According to the statement, about 60 per cent of Nigerians are under the age of 30, while 42 per cent are under 15. Despite this demographic advantage, only seven per cent of young Nigerians are estimated to have the digital skills required to compete in the global economy.
Highlighting the urgency of the initiative, the Foundation stated: “Young Nigerians have the opportunity to reimagine their country’s future. They are launching new organisations and businesses and building power through their activism on a wide variety of issues that impact daily life—from slowing climate change and improving access to clean energy, to promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability, and to preventing sexual and gender-based violence.”
The programme will focus on several key areas, including expanding access to technology and artificial intelligence skills, supporting innovation hubs and creative spaces, strengthening civic participation through media and journalism, and promoting research-driven public policy.
According to the Foundation, Nigeria Next will be implemented through grants, impact investments, and partnerships with its Technology in the Public Interest and Journalism and Media programmes, alongside other philanthropic organisations.
The Foundation added: “By empowering the nation’s young people, we can drive social and economic change in Nigeria while helping build a free and prosperous future.”
As young Nigerians continue to shape the intersection of technology, media, and democracy, the initiative is designed to position them not only as participants but as leaders in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.