…Urges Deployed Volunteers to Be Good Ambassadors of Nigeria

Joel Ajayi

The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support towards strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations with Caribbean nations, following the deployment of four Technical Aid Corps Volunteers to Grenada.

In a statement released Monday in Abuja by the Head of Information and Public Relations at NTAC, Ojo Adetoun Olubunmi, the DG emphasized that the deployment aligns with President Tinubu’s directive following his recent state visit to Saint Lucia, where he pledged Nigeria’s technical support to East Caribbean nations.

“Today, we are deploying Volunteers to Grenada, one of the Eastern Caribbean countries. You will recall that Mr. President, during his visit to Saint Lucia, met with the Prime Ministers of the region and committed to providing technical assistance to them. This deployment is in fulfillment of that promise,” Buba stated.

He commended President Tinubu’s visionary 4-D Foreign Policy Initiative, which he said is actively shaping Nigeria’s global image and enhancing South-South cooperation. “The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, fully sponsored by Mr. President, is deploying professionals across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. These deployments are positively raising Nigeria’s profile internationally,” he added.

Speaking at the deployment ceremony held at the NTAC headquarters in Abuja, the DG congratulated the Volunteers on their selection and urged them to carry the spirit of humanitarianism and professionalism to Grenada. “The Grenadian people are our brothers and sisters; serve them with dedication and integrity,” he charged.

Buba highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to technical diplomacy, noting that the TAC Scheme was established 38 years ago and has since deployed over 10,000 volunteers to more than 40 countries. “You are leaving your comfort zone to serve another nation. Nigeria is proud of your sacrifice,” he said.

He assured the Volunteers of the Agency’s full support throughout their two-year mission, covering airfare, allowances, and welfare as stipulated in the Country Agreement. He also noted that accommodation, local transportation, and utilities will be provided by the host country.

The DG further informed the Volunteers that the Nigerian Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago will oversee their welfare during their stay, encouraging them to report any issues through proper diplomatic channels for prompt resolution.

In his closing remarks, Buba wished the Volunteers a successful mission and encouraged them to return home enriched with experience to contribute to national development.

Earlier, the Director of Programmes at NTAC, Amb. Zakari Usman, praised the DG’s dedication to the success of the Grenada deployment and lauded the Volunteers for their readiness to serve.

Speaking on behalf of the team, Dr. Esala E. Abene expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu and the Nigerian government for the opportunity to represent the country abroad. He pledged to uphold high standards of professionalism and contribute meaningfully to strengthening Nigeria–Grenada relations.

The deployed Volunteers include specialist medical doctors and other health professionals, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to technical aid, diplomacy, and humanitarian service across the globe.

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