Nigeria Deploys 35 Technical Volunteers to Tanzania, Eyes Labour Export for Revenue Generation.
By Caroline Ameh
The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has announced the deployment of 35 technical volunteers to Zanzibar, Tanzania, under Nigeria’s ongoing foreign policy initiative aimed at strengthening soft power diplomacy and South-South cooperation.
Speaking during a briefing on Tuesday in Abuja ahead of the volunteers’ departure on Wednesday, the NTAC boss expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support in enhancing Nigeria’s foreign relations. He noted that the deployment aligns with President Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy initiative, which NTAC remains committed to executing.
The DG reflected on the history of the Corps, stating that NTAC was established in 1987 through an Act of the National Assembly to promote development through knowledge exchange, rather than financial handouts.
“Before 1987, Nigerian leaders gave cash support to sister nations in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. But they later agreed that sending technical experts would be more impactful — fostering relationships, cultural exchange, and development,” he said. “Since then, we’ve deployed over 10,000 experts to more than 40 countries.”
He cited the recent visit to The Gambia, where the impact of Nigerian volunteers was praised by President Adama Barrow. “The first and second Vice Chancellors of Gambia’s only university in 1999 were NTAC volunteers. Even today, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and several directors are Nigerian volunteers deployed in 2024,” he stated.
“This is the essence of South-South cooperation — sharing what we have among ourselves as black nations, rather than always seeking support from the West. We have all we need in Africa and the Caribbean.”
The Director General charged the departing 35 volunteers, mostly medical practitioners, to view themselves as ambassadors of Nigeria. He urged them to give their best in representing the country.
When asked why NTAC is deploying health workers despite Nigeria’s own shortfall, he explained, “Nigeria is a superpower in Africa. In the spirit of Pan-Africanism, we must share what we have. Even President Barrow recognized Nigeria for putting Africa in the global spotlight — and this is only possible through sharing.”
He stressed the need for more intra-African cooperation, saying low inter-African business engagement hampers unity and growth. “With this foreign policy direction, Africa is growing stronger and more united.”
Highlighting NTAC’s evolution, the DG revealed that the Corps is now being recognized as a revenue-generating agency. “The U.S. government has requested 400 Nigerian experts — and they are ready to fully pay for the services. Countries now trust Nigerian expertise because of our volunteers’ excellent performance.”
He added that this transition not only boosts Nigeria’s economy but also helps combat unemployment and irregular migration. “Millions of Nigerians are unemployed and seeking greener pastures abroad. But now, with paid expertise exportation, we’re offering them a legal, dignified path. The Attorney General is finalizing a new agreement to formalize this initiative.”
He also issued a stern warning to the volunteers, stating that any misconduct abroad will be sanctioned. However, he expressed confidence in the rigorous screening process and expected little to no disciplinary issues.
Speaking on behalf of the volunteers, Dr. Paul Conellous thanked NTAC for the opportunity. “To whom much is given, much is expected. We assure you of our commitment to represent Nigeria well. Thank you for this privilege — we will not fail you,” he pledged.
The volunteers are scheduled to serve in Tanzania for two years, contributing to healthcare and development while strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties in the region.
