NATEP: President Bola Tinubu’s Vision for Economic Growth

President Bola Tinubu has taken a significant step towards bolstering Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and creating one million in-demand jobs over the next five years.

The National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) was officially launched on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York, with Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, representing President Tinubu during the event.

In a statement signed by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, the initiative aims to position Nigeria as a global hub for talent outsourcing, following the successful examples set by countries like India, Bangladesh, Mexico, and The Philippines.

Touchaheart Nigeria reports on the details of this groundbreaking initiative.

NATEP: A Key Initiative for Nigeria’s Future

Dr. Uzoka-Anite, in her welcome address, emphasized that NATEP is a critical national initiative designed to make Nigeria a leading global hub for service exports, talent sourcing, and talent exports.

This dedicated entity is geared towards addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by the talent and service export industry in Nigeria.

“The programme will lay special emphasis on enhancing competitiveness, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable growth through trade in services,” she said.

Creating One Million In-Demand Jobs

One of the most promising aspects of NATEP is its goal to create one million in-demand jobs across Nigeria within the next five years.

According to the Minister, this initiative serves a three-fold purpose for the country.

“First, it will create millions of jobs for our young people over the next 5 years and beyond.”

“Second, it will bring in foreign exchange that our economy needs through remittances from talents that will be exported abroad and those that will be living in Nigeria and working remotely for organizations outside Nigeria.”

“Thirdly, it will generate huge tax income for state governments,” the minister explained.

Global Recognition and Support

Saadia Zahidi, the Managing Director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), expressed her enthusiasm for NATEP, calling it a timely initiative to address critical areas of skills and job creation in Nigeria and beyond.

“We at WEF stand ready to work with the Nigerian government on this great initiative,” said Zahidi.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, praised his colleague’s efforts in spearheading NATEP and pledged his ministry’s collaboration and support to ensure the program achieves its objectives.

Towards Becoming a Global Talent Export Hub

During the event, a panel discussion was moderated by the National Coordinator of NATEP, with Amal Hassan, Ola Williams, and Adaora Ikenze serving as panelists.

The NATEP logo was unveiled by the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, signaling Nigeria’s readiness to become a global hub for talent exports.

Prominent figures present at the launch included Saadia Zahidi, Chairman of the US-Nigeria Business Council Mr. John G. Coumantaros, Dr. Floriezelle Liser, Chief Executive of the Corporate Council on Africa, and representatives from leading tech companies like Google and Amazon AWS.

What You Should Know

President Bola Tinubu’s launch of the National Talent Export Programme is a visionary move that holds immense promise for Nigeria’s economic growth and youth employment.

With a commitment to creating one million in-demand jobs and positioning Nigeria as a global talent export hub, NATEP has garnered support from influential organizations and individuals, setting the stage for a brighter future for Nigeria and its youth.