Abuja: The West African Youth Council (WAYC) has honoured Dr Yusuf Yakub, Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), for his contributions to human capital development, youth empowerment, and regional integration across Africa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, a three-member WAYC delegation led by the council’s Head of Operations, Olaleru Folorunsho, presented the Award of Excellence to Yakub during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Thursday. Other delegation members included Abass Abayomi and Hajara Abubakar.
Speaking during the presentation, the delegation commended Yakub’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s Technical Aid Scheme through the deployment of skilled Nigerian professionals to beneficiary countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. His efforts have contributed to strengthening diplomatic relations, promoting South-South cooperation, and supporting sustainable development.
The delegation stated that the award was in recognition of Yakub’s service to humanity, commitment to youth development, and support for initiatives aimed at advancing socio-economic growth in the West African sub-region. They also praised reforms and strategic initiatives introduced under his leadership, which have enhanced the visibility and impact of NTAC at both the national and international levels.
Responding to the recognition, Yakub thanked the council and dedicated the award to the management and staff of NTAC for their contributions to the agency’s achievements. He reaffirmed NTAC’s commitment to international cooperation, capacity building, technical assistance, and youth-focused programmes that promote sustainable development and regional integration.
Yakub highlighted the importance of young people as critical stakeholders in nation-building, urging them to remain focused, disciplined, innovative, and committed to contributing positively to their communities and countries. The visit also included discussions on mutual interests such as youth empowerment, leadership development, entrepreneurship, education, skills acquisition, and strategic partnerships.
Both parties expressed readiness to explore collaborative initiatives to expand opportunities for young people and strengthen regional cooperation. NAN reports that the highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Award of Excellence to Yakub, underscoring growing recognition of NTAC’s role in advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives through technical cooperation, human capital development, and international partnerships.