The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has announced a new initiative that will enable the country to formally export its skilled labour and professional expertise to requesting nations in exchange for a fee.
Director General of NTAC, Dr Yusuf Yakub disclosed this during an orientation programme in Abuja for eight volunteers departing for The Gambia and Seychelles.
Dr Yakub said; “the initiative is designed to curb irregular migration by creating a structured pathway for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, allowing them to work with dignity in other parts of the world.”
He noted that “Nigeria is currently the largest exporter of labour in Africa and remains a significant contributor to global human resource development, particularly in relation to the Millennium Development Goals and Sustainable Development Goals.”
The pre-deployment briefing for the new volunteers, who will serve under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, reflects another milestone in Nigeria’s commitment to promoting soft-power diplomacy and strengthening international cooperation.
Addressing the outgoing volunteers, Dr Yakub urged them to uphold Nigeria’s image as they represent the country abroad.
“You are going out as ambassadors of Nigeria. Leave behind your weaknesses and carry forward your strengths,” he said, assuring them that both NTAC and Nigerian embassies in their host countries would support their welfare throughout their service.
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He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his consistent support, noting that the administration’s 4Ds Foreign Policy — Diplomacy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora — has enhanced NTAC’s visibility and impact globally.
“Since the beginning of the present administration, the Corps has recorded its highest levels of deployment activities, with testimonies of impact from partner nations,” he stated.
NTAC, which has deployed more than 10,000 volunteers to over 40 countries in its 38-year history, remains one of Nigeria’s strongest soft-power instruments.
In his welcome remarks, NTAC’s Director of Programmes, Ambassador Zakari Usman, congratulated the five volunteers posted to The Gambia and the three heading to Seychelles.
He reminded them that their conduct would reflect on the entire nation and urged them “to serve with dignity, professionalism, and integrity.”
Speaking on behalf of the group, Team Leader Dr Mustapha Suleiman expressed gratitude to the President, NTAC leadership and management for the opportunity to serve.
He noted that many Nigerians aspire to such placements and pledged that the volunteers would uphold their agreements and represent the country with honour.
“We will uphold the image of the nation and serve with excellence,” he assured.