By Lucy Ogalue
The National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) are partnering to enhance opportunities for Nigerian talents in the global space.
Dr Femi Adeluyi, National Coordinator, NATEP said this during an Information Session organised by both organisations, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the theme of the three-day meeting is “Possibilities and Requirements for Work and Study in Germany and Mastering Remote Work”.
Adeluyi said that the partnership with the German government’s development arm sought not only to facilitate the export of Nigerian expertise but also to spur job creation domestically through international avenues.
“This partnership aims to provide pathways for Nigerians to access opportunities both physically abroad and remotely from Nigeria. And there are numerous opportunities beyond Germany.
“NATEP’s focus is on exporting talent, with a significant portion of the workforce working remotely, ensuring that 90 per cent or more will come from within Nigeria,” he said.
Adeluyi said the initiative’s objectives aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s priority on job creation and economic revitalisation.
He said: “The initiative aims to create jobs and generate foreign exchange by targeting international job markets.
“Various government programmes are upskilling Nigerians, aggregating talents based on market demands, and matching them with suitable opportunities.
“The session in Abuja was attended by approximately 300 participants and is the first of many planned across Nigeria.”
The coordinator highlighted the educational opportunities in Germany that allowed participants to gain skills and choose to either work abroad or return to Nigeria to contribute locally.
He, however, advised participants on the window of obtaining scholarships to help facilitate their education rather than providing the mandatory blocked funds.
Adeluyi said NATEP was also collaborating with the Super Skilled Artisan Programme, coordinated by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), which focused on upskilling artisans for opportunities in Germany and other countries.
According to him, the programme has three pathways; local employment, entrepreneurship, and international opportunities facilitated by NATEP.
He highlighted some ongoing collaboration with partners, such as Lab4 and the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce.
According to him, these alliances are also geared towards thousands of job generation, and to facilitate talent migration to countries like Kuwait.
He expressed optimism for continued media support in publicising these opportunities and ensuring widespread awareness and participation from Nigerians. (NAN)