Jamaica has formally requested 400 skilled Nigerian professionals to work across various sectors, promising full salary payments to bridge a critical manpower gap, the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has announced. Dr. Yusuf Yakub, the Director-General (D-G) of NTAC, confirmed this exciting development during a recent deployment exercise for 16 new volunteers in Abuja on Tuesday.
The call by Jamaica is seen as a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and the Caribbean nation, further promoting Nigeria’s status as a leading supporter of development in the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) regions.
“Jamaica has officially requested for 400 professionals, and they are willing to offer 100% salary payments to ensure these experts work in their country,” said Dr. Yakub, adding that the initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance international cooperation. “This is in line with the renewed focus of the Nigerian government on human capital development and diaspora engagement as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”
NTAC has long been recognized for its role in sending Nigerian volunteers to various countries to fill professional and educational gaps. Since its inception in 1987, the agency has deployed over 10,000 volunteers globally. However, Dr. Yakub pointed out that the Jamaica agreement represents a shift in the way Nigeria’s expertise is shared with the world.
“We are not just sending volunteers on a humanitarian basis anymore. There is a growing demand for Nigerian professionals who can contribute to development and who are being compensated for their skills in a dignified and structured manner,” Dr. Yakub emphasized.
The NTAC, which operates under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is now evolving into a revenue-generating agency. “Our goal is to build a sustainable model that benefits both Nigeria and the countries requesting assistance. Jamaica’s approach is a step in that direction, and we see this as a major achievement for NTAC,” he added.
Jamaica’s request comes as the country continues to struggle with shortages in specialized fields, including engineering, healthcare, education, and agriculture. By seeking Nigerian professionals, Jamaica hopes to bridge these gaps and continue its development trajectory, particularly in sectors that are vital to national growth and social well-being.
“We are grateful to NTAC for their collaboration and for providing us with the opportunity to access the necessary expertise. This partnership will contribute significantly to the development of our workforce and the strengthening of our infrastructure,” said a Jamaican government representative, who preferred to remain unnamed.
The volunteers who were deployed on Tuesday are part of a group of 16 who will serve in the Republic of Benin and Rwanda. Their mission is to carry out essential work in education, healthcare, and technical fields, further deepening Nigeria’s support for other developing nations.
Mr. Jafaru Usman, one of the new volunteers, was among those selected for international deployment. A qualified engineer from the University of Maiduguri, Usman will be joining the Nigerian volunteers heading to the Republic of Benin. He expressed his excitement about the opportunity to serve humanity and build stronger international ties.
“It is a great honor to be part of this program,” Usman said. “I feel a deep sense of responsibility not only to the Nigerian government but also to the communities that will benefit from our expertise.”
Dr. Angela Akanwa, a Senior Lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, was also among the volunteers. Akanwa, who will be working in Rwanda, expressed gratitude for the chance to represent Nigeria on the global stage. “I am proud to be part of this initiative. I promise to uphold the integrity of my country and to deliver the best possible service during my time abroad,” she said.
This development aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which emphasizes global partnerships, development, and diaspora engagement. The NTAC’s evolving role supports the broader vision of fostering international relationships while benefiting the Nigerian economy through strategically placed, skilled professionals.
The Role of NTAC: A Bridge Between Nations
NTAC’s core mandate has always been to provide technical assistance to developing countries, mainly within the ACP group. These nations rely heavily on volunteer experts who can work in sectors such as education, agriculture, engineering, and healthcare. In return, Nigerian volunteers gain valuable experience, cultural exchange, and opportunities for professional growth.
The program was first established in 1987, and it has since become a vital part of Nigeria’s foreign policy. Volunteers sent abroad represent the nation’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in other nations. The 400 professionals requested by Jamaica are expected to fill crucial roles in various industries, offering their expertise to support the country’s economic and social development.
However, the Jamaican request signals a new chapter for NTAC, one where its role extends beyond traditional humanitarian aid. Dr. Yakub’s vision is clear: Nigeria will no longer just provide goodwill; the country will enter into mutually beneficial agreements where Nigerian professionals are compensated for their expertise.
This agreement with Jamaica could lead to more such requests from other countries, potentially creating a new source of revenue for Nigeria. “This is just the beginning,” Yakub said, as he encouraged other nations to engage with NTAC for skilled labor.
A Global Influence
The Jamaican opportunity underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in global technical cooperation. Nigerian professionals are highly regarded across the world, with their skills in demand in regions far beyond Africa. From the Caribbean to the Pacific, Nigerian experts have made significant contributions to education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
For now, the NTAC program continues to grow, expanding both its scope and its impact. The agency is determined to continue this success, ensuring that Nigeria remains a key partner in global development efforts.