One of the best ways to break into the tech industry, especially in a competitive market like Nigeria, is by gaining hands-on experience through internships. It’s where theory meets practice, and where budding developers, designers, analysts, and engineers can sharpen their skills, build a portfolio, and connect with industry professionals.

Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or someone looking to pivot into tech, the right internship can open doors, boost your confidence, and give you a real-world glimpse into the kind of work you'll be doing full-time. But not all internships are created equal some offer mentorship, projects that matter, and even a path to full-time roles.

In this guide, find out some of the tech internships in Nigeria that offer more than just coffee runs, they help launch careers.

Imagine working at one of Africa’s biggest telecom giants yes, the same MTN behind your mobile data. It’s tailored for recent graduates who are ready to be challenged and fast-tracked into big roles across Africa’s largest telecom provider.  You’ll rotate across departments, gain executive mentorship, and build cross-functional skills that are highly relevant whether you stay in telecom or pivot into tech.

Nationwide

You need at least a 2:1 or HND Upper Credit and must have completed your NYSC by September 2024.

One year

You’ll get cross-functional exposure across departments, mentorship from top executives, and real projects that shape how telecom works in Africa.

If you’re passionate about coding, this one’s for you. Bincom’s internship, run through their Bincom Academy, is all about building skills by doing. This internship is designed for aspiring developers and tech enthusiasts looking to sharpen their coding skills in a practical environment. You’ll dive into languages like PHP, Python, and work on actual projects from day one. Bincom uses a Montessori-inspired approach, so learning here is self-paced, hands-on, and collaborative.

Remote or physical centres across Nigeria

Anyone passionate about IT—studying a tech course helps, but it’s not a dealbreaker

6 months to 1 year

You’ll work with tools like PHP, Python, and mobile development. It’s hands-on, Montessori-style learning, where self-research is encouraged.

Exceptional interns could win scholarships and even land a Graduate Trainee role at Bincom.

Sterling Bank is going beyond banking. Their Tech Talent program is on a mission to shape future tech leaders who’ll revolutionise the financial sector. This internship is ideal for undergrads or pre-NYSC graduates with a background (or strong interest) in IT, data science, or engineering. You’ll work on fintech projects, collaborate with seasoned consultants, and get exposed to innovation in financial services.

Location: Mostly Lagos (Hybrid formats possible)

Undergraduates or graduates (pre-NYSC) studying or passionate about IT, computer science, engineering, etc.

3 to 12 months

Real-world tech projects, mentorship, and insights into how innovation fuels modern banking.

You’ll need a reference letter, and Corps members aren’t eligible.

Cowrywise is one of Nigeria’s most innovative fintech platforms, and their internship is perfect if you’re passionate about financial literacy and want to build communication and leadership skills.

It’s twofold: there’s a 1-day crash internship for a behind-the-scenes look at Cowrywise, and a longer Ambassador Internship where you act as a campus advocate, promoting smart money habits and engaging students. Virtual and on-campus

Any student in a Nigerian tertiary institution

One-day crash course + longer-term roles

Get trained on personal finance, run campaigns, build your people skills—and yes, add some fintech sparkle to your CV.

Successful ambassadors could land longer-term internships or even join the Cowrywise team later.

Whether you’re eyeing a future in software development, fintech, venture capital, or digital innovation, these internships offer more than just a foot in the door—they’re a chance to build practical skills, gain industry insight, and connect with professionals who’ve walked the path you’re starting out on.

Each programme brings something different to the table, so it’s worth applying to the ones that align with your interests and long-term goals. In a competitive industry like tech, the right internship can be the launchpad that sets your career in motion.

So don’t wait for the “perfect time”—get your application ready, take the leap, and start building the future you want.