Joel Ajayi
The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has deployed 18 volunteers—12 to Liberia and 6 to Rwanda—under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, in another demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation and soft power diplomacy.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Head of Information and Public Relations, NTAC, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ojo Adetoun Olubunmi, the deployment was described as part of Nigeria’s longstanding tradition of offering technical support to friendly nations.
Delivering his keynote address, the Director-General of NTAC, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Buba Yakub, welcomed the volunteers and praised their readiness to serve. He linked the success of the scheme to the visionary 4D foreign policy agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which, he noted, has further elevated Nigeria’s global image.
“The President’s passion and funding support have made Nigeria a pride to all nations of the world,” he said.
Highlighting the Corps’ legacy, Buba recalled that since its establishment 38 years ago, NTAC has deployed more than 10,000 Nigerian experts to over 40 African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, fostering cultural exchange, friendship, and humanitarian service.
Charging the volunteers to be worthy ambassadors, he declared:
“Leave behind your weaknesses and go with your strengths. You are now technical diplomats carrying official passports. Conduct yourselves in a way that shows the world that Nigerians are good, well-trained people.”
He further urged them to embrace contentment, manage resources wisely, and return as more skilled and experienced professionals. Buba also reminded them of the many TAC alumni who went on to achieve remarkable feats, including serving as Vice-Chancellors of universities.
Earlier, Amb. Zakari Usman, Director of Programmes at NTAC, commended the DG’s leadership and applauded President Tinubu’s vision, assuring the volunteers that their deployment is both a privilege and a national responsibility.
“You are a direct reflection of Nigeria; carry yourselves as such,” he charged.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Professor Solomon Ogbu, the Team Leader, expressed gratitude for the rare opportunity, promising that they would justify the trust placed in them. He noted Rwanda’s reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest and most hospitable nations, adding:
“We go in good faith, and we will excel.”
The ceremony concluded with group photographs, symbolizing NTAC’s continued role in advancing service, international cooperation, and Nigeria’s image abroad.
