Abuja:The Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Dr. Yusuf Yakub, has urged 21 Nigerian professionals heading to Uganda to maintain the country’s values of excellence, professionalism, discipline, and patriotism. This charge was delivered during a briefing, orientation, and send-off ceremony in Abuja for the volunteers embarking on a two-year technical service in Uganda.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Yakub emphasized the importance of the volunteers’ role as ambassadors of Nigeria. He stated that their behavior would influence the global perception of the country, urging them to serve humanity, impart knowledge, and provide services to their Ugandan counterparts.
Yakub advised the volunteers to undertake their tasks with humility, adaptability, and a spirit of sacrifice, aiming to leave a significant impact on their host institutions in Uganda. He highlighted that NTAC has deployed over 12,000 Nigerian experts to more than 40 countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific over the past 38 years, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to South-South Cooperation and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, Yakub mentioned an emerging Federal Government initiative focused on the dignified international deployment of skilled Nigerian workers. This initiative involves negotiated agreements that ensure fair remuneration, protection, and dignity for the workers. He noted that Nigeria recently signed an agreement with Jamaica for deploying around 400 youths, where NTAC will cover salaries and allowances, while the host country provides accommodation, utilities, and transportation.
Assistant Director of Programmes, Mr. Akin Falusi, described the volunteers as highly qualified professionals from across Nigeria. The volunteers pledged to uphold Nigeria’s reputation by promoting a positive image in their host countries.
The Team Lead, Prof. Rilwanu Umar, expressed gratitude to the agency for the opportunity and assured that the team was committed to contributing to Uganda’s development.