Nigeria has deployed over 10,000 technical experts to various countries across the globe since the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) was established in 1987. According to NTAC Director General Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, this effort has significantly contributed to revenue generation and tackled unemployment at home.
Speaking during a pre-departure briefing in Abuja for 35 newly selected volunteers heading to Zanzibar, Tanzania, Yakub commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in repositioning NTAC as a key player in advancing Nigeria’s soft diplomacy. “In the past, Nigeria’s support to fellow developing nations was mostly financial. But since the establishment of NTAC, we’ve adopted a more strategic approach — exporting our expertise to promote cultural exchange, build goodwill, and strengthen diplomatic ties,” Yakub noted.
The NTAC boss highlighted the Corps’ contributions to national development across Africa, citing The Gambia as a prime example. “The first two Vice Chancellors of the University of The Gambia were Nigerian volunteers. Today, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and other top officials of the university are products of our volunteer initiative,” he revealed.
Addressing concerns over deploying medical personnel despite Nigeria’s own healthcare challenges, Yakub stated, “In the spirit of South-South cooperation and Pan-Africanism, sharing knowledge and capacity is part of how we elevate the continent.” He also announced that partner countries, including the United States, are now requesting and willing to pay for Nigerian expertise. “The American government has formally requested 400 technical experts, and this time, at full cost. This not only generates revenue but also curbs the rising trend of irregular migration among young Nigerians,” Yakub said.
Representing the departing volunteers, Dr. Paul Conellous expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve, promising that they would uphold Nigeria’s honor and dignity abroad. “To whom much is given, much is expected. We assure you, we will not fail Nigeria,” he said.