By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
Director-General of the National Talent Export Council (NTAC), Dr. Femi Adeluyi, has announced that Nigeria is preparing to roll out a structured labour export programme as part of efforts to tackle unemployment and boost foreign exchange earnings.
Speaking at a briefing in Abuja on Friday, Dr. Adeluyi said the initiative is designed to connect skilled Nigerian professionals with global opportunities in sectors where international demand is growing. According to him, the move forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic strategy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This programme is about creating opportunities for our talented citizens and positioning Nigeria as a global supplier of skilled labour,” Adeluyi explained. “We are not just exporting workers; we are exporting talent, knowledge, and innovation in a structured and safe manner.”
The DG noted that NTAC has already commenced discussions with several foreign governments and multinational organisations to identify sectors where Nigerian expertise will be in high demand. He highlighted areas such as healthcare, technology, construction, and education as priorities.
“We are ensuring that Nigerian workers who take part in this programme are given adequate protection, fair wages, and legal rights in their host countries,” he added. “The Council is also working with the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and relevant embassies to safeguard the welfare of our citizens abroad.”
Adeluyi stressed that the labour export initiative would be carefully regulated to prevent exploitation and brain drain, pointing out that participating workers will contribute to Nigeria’s economy through remittances. He cited World Bank estimates that remittances from the diaspora already stand at over $20 billion annually, describing the figure as “a powerful resource to strengthen our economy.”
Labour unions and professional bodies are also expected to play a role in shaping the framework. “We are engaging with stakeholders to ensure that this programme benefits not just the individuals involved, but the nation as a whole,” Adeluyi said.
The DG further revealed that a pilot phase of the programme will be launched in early 2026, targeting specific countries in Europe, the Middle East, and North America where skill shortages are evident. Training and certification programmes are to be rolled out to prepare Nigerian workers for international standards.
“This is not about sending unskilled labour abroad,” he clarified. “It is about training and certifying our professionals so that they can compete and thrive in the global market.”
Reactions to the announcement have been mixed. While some policy analysts see it as a pragmatic step to reduce unemployment and diversify revenue sources, others caution against over-reliance on foreign labour markets.
Economic analyst Dr. Amina Yusuf told reporters: “If well structured, this programme could be a win-win. However, Nigeria must also focus on creating jobs at home so that labour export does not become an escape route instead of a development strategy.”
For many young Nigerians, the initiative is being welcomed as an opportunity to seek better working conditions abroad. However, questions remain about how the government will balance local manpower needs with international demand.
As the rollout approaches, the NTAC has promised continuous consultation with communities, civil society, and the private sector to refine the programme.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter,” Adeluyi said. “Nigeria is ready to show the world the value of its human capital.”
