Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has deployed 18 volunteers — 12 to Liberia and six to Rwanda — as part of its ongoing Technical Aid Corps Scheme, reinforcing Nigeria’s role in international cooperation and soft power diplomacy.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony in Abuja, the Director-General of NTAC, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Buba Yakub, urged the volunteers to uphold Nigeria’s image abroad.
“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 charged.
Buba praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 4D policy agenda — Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora — which, he said, has elevated Nigeria’s global image.
“The President’s passion and funding support have made Nigeria a pride to all nations of the world,” the DG noted.
NTAC as a Tool of Soft Power
Established 38 years ago, the Technical Aid Corps has deployed more than 10,000 experts to over 40 countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, contributing to capacity building, cultural exchange, and humanitarian service.
Buba reminded the departing volunteers of past NTAC alumni who have risen to leadership positions, including vice-chancellors of universities, urging them to return home with experience and distinction.
Officials and Volunteers Speak
Amb. Zakari Usman, NTAC’s Director of Programmes, commended the DG’s leadership and congratulated the selected participants.
“You are a direct reflection of Nigeria; carry yourselves as such,” he said.
The team leader, Professor Solomon Ogbu, expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleagues for being chosen from among thousands of applicants.
“We go in good faith, and we will excel,” he assured, adding that Rwanda, in particular, offered a clean and hospitable environment for the volunteers to succeed.
The ceremony ended with group photographs, symbolizing yet another milestone in Nigeria’s global service mission.
