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Tag: NTAC

  • Gambian President Appreciates Nigeria’s  Technical Aid Scheme (NTAC), as Gambia’s Engineering University Graduates 951

    Gambian President Appreciates Nigeria’s  Technical Aid Scheme (NTAC), as Gambia’s Engineering University Graduates 951

     

    – President Tinubu Committed to Nigeria’s Development Cooperation with The Gambia – NTAC DG declared in Banjul

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Flowerbudnews: The President of the Republic of Gambia Adama Barrow. has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people for the technological support given his country through the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) Scheme.

    President Barrow, who is also the Chancellor of the Gambian University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET) expressed the appreciation while speaking at USET graduation of a total of 951 students during its 2nd Combined Convocation Ceremony held in Banjul.

    The ceremony had the theme: “Innovation for Impact: Science, Skills and Sustainable Development,” a statement by Ojo Adetoun Olubunmi, Head, Information and Public Relations Unit, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), disclosed.

    (𝑼𝑺𝑬𝑻 𝑽𝑪 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝑻𝑨𝑪 𝑽𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒓, 𝑬𝒏𝒈𝒓. 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇. 𝑺𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒋𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒏-𝑩𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒆, 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒖𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆.)

    President Barrow commended Nigeria’s development cooperation efforts and acknowledged the positive contributions of Nigerian professionals serving under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme to the growth of critical sectors in The Gambia, particularly higher education.

    The Gambian leader also appreciated development partners and stakeholders for their contributions to the advancement of USET and charged the graduands to remain connected to their alma mater by giving back to the institution.

    He further encouraged the University’s Governing Council and Management to continue advancing innovation for lasting impact and sustainable development.

    (𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑩𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘 (𝑭𝒂𝒓 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕), 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝑼𝑺𝑬𝑻, 𝑴𝒓. 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑵𝑻𝑨𝑪 𝑫𝑮, 𝑹𝒕. 𝑯𝒐𝒏. 𝒀𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒇 𝑩𝑼𝑩𝑨 𝒀𝑨𝑲𝑼𝑩, 𝒅𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝟐𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒃𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒐𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑪𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒊𝒂 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒑𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 , 𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒆𝒄𝒉𝒏𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒅 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒊𝒓 𝑫𝒂𝒘𝒅𝒂 𝑲. 𝑱𝑨𝑾𝑨𝑹𝑨 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑪𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒆, 𝑩𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒖𝒍, 𝑮𝑨𝑴𝑩𝑰𝑨, 𝒐𝒏 *𝑺𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝟏𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔.*)

    Representing Nigeria at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, conveyed the goodwill and greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the Government and people of The Gambia.

    The NTAC Director-General reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s development cooperation with The Gambia through strategic technical assistance, knowledge transfer, capacity building and the deployment of skilled Nigerian professionals.

    A defining highlight of the convocation was the visible impact of the NTAC Scheme on higher education development in The Gambia, with several Nigerian Technical Aid Corps volunteers now occupying strategic academic leadership positions in the country’s tertiary institutions.

    Among them are the Vice Chancellor of USET, Engr. Prof. Nazmat Surajudeen-Bakinde, Prof. Ado Yusuf Abdulfatah, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), USET, and Prof. David Gundu, Director Academic Planning and Quality Assurance.

    Othrrs are, Prof. Akinlabi, Director Grants/ Research,and Prof. Kayode Adekeye, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), University of The Gambia.

    Their rise to such positions of responsibility underscored the enduring success and relevance of the NTAC intervention in The Gambia, Rt -Hon. Buba Yakub noted.

    (𝑴𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒊𝒂 𝑷𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒇𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒚’𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕)

    The NTAC DG also commended The Gambia’s Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, for his steadfast commitment to the success of the partnership between NTAC and The Gambia.

    He recalled that Prof. Gomez initiated discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration with NTAC as early as his second day in office, demonstrating remarkable dedication to educational advancement and human capital development.

    In her remarks, Prof. Nazmat Surajudeen-Bakinde, herself a product of the NTAC Scheme, paid special tribute to the Government of Nigeria and the Director-General of NTAC for their unwavering support to higher education development in The Gambia.

    She acknowledged the significant contributions of Nigerian professionals to the growth and transformation of tertiary education in the country.

    The ceremony featured the conferment of Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates on 951 graduands across various disciplines.

    The University also presented Awards for Academic Excellence to outstanding students, with awardees attaining impressive academic performances ranging from 70.03 per cent to 91.50 per cent.

    Awards of recognition were equally presented to deserving dignitaries and distinguished personalities. Among the recipients was the Director-General of NTAC, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, who received his award from President Adama Barrow in recognition of NTAC’s outstanding contributions to capacity building and educational development in The Gambia.

    In her valedictory address, the Valedictorian expressed appreciation to the World Bank for its support to the institution and thanked the Vice Chancellor and Management of USET for their encouragement and commitment to student success.

    While congratulating her graduating colleagues with the declaration, “We made it!”, she urged the continuing students to remain resolute, uphold integrity and pursue excellence, adding that “Here at USET, we don’t take the best; we make the best.”

    (𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑩𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒘(𝒎), 𝑴𝒓 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒎, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓 𝑮𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝑼𝑺𝑬𝑻; 𝑹𝒕. 𝑯𝒐𝒏. 𝑩𝑼𝑩𝑨 𝒐𝒇 𝑵𝑻𝑨𝑪 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑼𝑵𝑫𝑷’𝒔 𝑮𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒊𝒂 𝑹𝒆𝒑., 𝑴𝒔 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒖(𝑴𝒓 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕’𝒔 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕), 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑬𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝑹𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒆𝒄𝒉, 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝑨𝑴𝑩𝑰𝑨, 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒇. 𝑮𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒛 𝑷𝒊𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒆)

     

    Also in attendance were the Chairperson of the Governing Council of USET, Engr. Ebrima Cham, the Honourable Minister of Technical and Higher Education of Sierra Leone, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, academics, development partners and other distinguished guests.

    The event once again highlighted the enduring impact of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps Scheme as a strategic instrument of Nigeria’s foreign policy and South-South Cooperation, fostering human capital development, institutional strengthening and lasting bilateral relations between Nigeria and The Gambia, the NTAC statement noted (FLOWERBUDNEWS):

     

  • NTAC DG Appreciates Pres.Tinubu’s Support as a batch of 11 TAC Volunteers Return from Uganda

    NTAC DG Appreciates Pres.Tinubu’s Support as a batch of 11 TAC Volunteers Return from Uganda

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub has appreciated Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
    says he, the President, has made TAC function optimally since he assumed power.

    Rt.-Hon.. Buba Yakub gave the commendation on Monday in Abuja when he formally received eleven 11 volunteers returning from the Republic of Uganda after a successful completion of their two-year Technical Assistance assignments in various institutions in that country.

    The NTAC DG, who also congratulated President Tinubu on his win in the APC Presidential primary election conducted over the weekend across the country. noted that NTAC operations has continued to reaffirm Nigeria’s Technical Diplomacy and Capacity Building Success_

    The reception, during which a debriefing and support session was held, was part of the CORPS’ commitment to the welfare, monitoring and reintegration of returning volunteers under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, a statement by Ojo Olubunmi, Head, NTAC Information and Public Relations, disclosed.

    Rt.-Hon. Buba Yakub warmly welcomed the volunteers back to Nigeria and commended them for their patriotism, dedication, professionalism, and outstanding representation of the country while serving in Uganda.

    He disclosed that many of the volunteers distinguished themselves through impactful service delivery, academic excellence, and professional contributions, earning awards, commendations, and recognition from both the Government of Uganda and their host institutions.

    _“As you return to your various institutions in Nigeria, I am confident that the exposure and experience gained during the assignment will positively distinguish you among your peers and further enhance your contributions to national development,”_ the Director-General stated.

    He further noted that the achievements recorded by the volunteers reflect the growing strength and relevance of the Technical Aid Corps Scheme as one of Nigeria’s foremost instruments of soft power diplomacy and South-South Cooperation.

    The Director-General also appreciated the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the NTAC management and staff, particularly the Department of Programmes, for their continued support, effective coordination, monitoring, and successful management of volunteers throughout the duration of the assignment.

    Speaking on behalf of the returning volunteers, the team lead, Prof. Yusuf Ali Zoaka, expressed appreciation to the Director-General, NTAC management, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Federal Government for providing a conducive and well-coordinated environment throughout their deployment in Uganda.

    Prof. Zoaka highlighted the significant achievements recorded during the assignment, particularly in the area of academic and professional capacity building.

    According to him, the volunteers supervised several Master’s and PhD candidates, supported newly established doctoral programmes, participated in academic development initiatives, and contributed immensely to the growth of their host institutions.

    Prof. Zoaka further disclosed that some Ugandan institutions have already expressed interest in continued collaboration with the Nigerian scholars through future academic and professional engagements, owing to the remarkable impact made during the deployment.

    The returning volunteers also appreciated the Federal Government for sustaining the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, which continued to strengthen Nigeria’s bilateral relations, promote Technical Cooperation, and project the country’s goodwill across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific (ACP) countries.

    The reception and debriefing session, which was also attended by members of the management team and staff of the Corps.
    underscored NTAC’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, professional development, and successful reintegration of its volunteers after overseas assignments.

    Established as a flagship foreign policy initiative of the Federal Government, the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps Scheme remains a critical medium for promoting South-South Cooperation, international partnership, capacity building, and the export of Nigeria’s Technical expertise and Human Capital, to developing countries across the globe.

    NTAC is an agency under the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

  • Nigeria Undertakes Strategic Bilateral Engagement in Trinidad and Tobago, Strengthens South-South Cooperation

    Nigeria Undertakes Strategic Bilateral Engagement in Trinidad and Tobago, Strengthens South-South Cooperation

     

     

    – Nigerian Technical Aid Corps remained dedicated to promoting international cooperation through the effective deployment of Nigeria’s skilled manpower, in line with global best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

     

    By Biola Lawal
    The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has undertaken a high-level bilateral engagement in Trinidad and Tobago to further deepen South-South cooperation.

    The Nigerian delegation, led by the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, undertook the official visit on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as part of ongoing efforts to expand Nigeria’s diplomatic footprint and strengthen mutually beneficial partnerships with Caribbean nations.

    This was disclosed in a statement by O. A. Olubunmi, Head of Info. & PR Unit Nigerian Technical Aid Corps
    Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a copy of which was made available to Flowerbudnews.

    The Nigerian delegation undertook strategic engagements at the Federal Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the Nigerian Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago.

    These engagements were aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation under the South-South framework.

    The visit underscored the strategic importance placed by the administration of President Tinubu on fostering robust cooperation among developing countries, particularly in areas of technical assistance, capacity building, education, healthcare, and cultural exchange.

     

    It further aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives of promoting solidarity, shared prosperity, and sustainable development across the Global South.

    During the engagement, the NTAC delegation held productive discussions with key government stakeholders in Trinidad and Tobago, focusing on enhancing collaboration under the South-South Cooperation framework.

    The deliberations were attended by the Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of Trinidad and Tobago, Dankaro Angye Ashumate, who was accompanied by the Head of Chancery, Mrs. Linda Hills.

    Their presence further underscored the importance both countries attach to strengthening diplomatic and development cooperation.

    The discussions highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding role as a leader in technical aid delivery, leveraging its human capital to support partner countries through the deployment of skilled professionals.

    NTAC DG, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to expand the scope of its technical assistance programmes to Trinidad and Tobago, building on historical ties and shared cultural heritage between both nations.

    He reiterated that the initiative reflects the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to position Nigeria as a pivotal driver of development cooperation and a reliable partner in addressing common challenges faced by developing countries.

    The delegation included the Director of Programmes, Ambassador Bello Jaye, alongside other key officials of the Corps, whose contributions were instrumental in advancing discussions and identifying priority areas for collaboration.

    The bilateral engagement further provided an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s achievements under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, which had, over the years, deployed thousands of professionals to beneficiary countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

     

    This visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria–Trinidad and Tobago relations and reinforces the country’s commitment to the principles of South-South Cooperation, mutual respect, and shared development.

    Nigerian Technical Aid Corps remained dedicated to promoting international cooperation through the effective deployment of Nigeria’s skilled manpower, in line with global best practices and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

     

     

  • NTAC DG Introduces Weekly Fitness Walk for Health Benefits of Staffers

    NTAC DG Introduces Weekly Fitness Walk for Health Benefits of Staffers

     

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps,Rt.Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub has approved the introduction of a 45-minute once-in-a-Week Fitness Walk to enhance the health of all NTAC workers.

    To flag-off the health and fitness exercise, the NTAC boss personally led some members of the NTAC Management for a 45-minute walk at the popular Jabi Lake Sports Field opposite the NTAC Complex in Abuja over the weekend.

    Addressing the participants at the maiden walk exercise, Rt.-Hon. Buba stressed that physical exercise was a necessity for fitness and mental alertness for all workers in the public service space,, Nkem Anyata-Lafia, Special Assistant to the DG, NTAC (Media and Publicity), disclosed in a statement.

    He said such physical fitness and mental alertness were necessary for the kind of energy and focus required not only to drive service-delivery,but also make for enhanced productivity amongst workers.

    The NTAC Boss who reiterated the connection between physical fitness and enhanced productivity, hinted that a day would be set aside for all staff of NTAC to engage in such activity.

    “We all know the importance of physical fitness to our work as public servants.If we refuse to engage the body to make it active,even our brain fails to work optimally .

    “Oftentimes,our routine, from home to office and from office to home,hardly allows us to engage in even simple walking for the length of time our bodies require to stay in optimum health and fitness.

    “Today’s novel Walk is merely to encourage us to tone up our muscles daily,to avoid the killer situation called sedentary lifestyle, keep ourselves fit and be able to drive more actively the requirements of Mr.President’s Renewed Hope Agenda here in NTAC.

    ” We will surely find a way to incorporate this in the activities and programmes of the Corps.”

    Meanwhile ,the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps has set aside the end of work every Wednesday for a physical fitness walk for all staff of the Agency who are not encumbered by any form of incapacitation or underlying illness.

    In an Internal Circular signed by Amb.Saidu D.Muhammad and circulated to all NTAC staff, on Monday,at the NTAC Complex in Abuja,the Deputy Director in-charge of Administration at the Agency informed members of staff of a walking exercise with the Agency’s Director General at the end of work on Wednesday,November 12, adding that the mandatory walking exercise would take place at the Jabi Lake Sports Field opposite the NTAC Complex.

    pictures of the novel walk with the NTAC DG,the Director of Programmes as well as personal Aides of the DG and other members of staff.*

  • NTAC DG Emerges “Most Outstanding Public Servant of the Year 2025”, Dedicate Award to President Tinubu

    NTAC DG Emerges “Most Outstanding Public Servant of the Year 2025”, Dedicate Award to President Tinubu

     

     

    –    Rt-Hon. Buba Yakub thanked President Tinubu for being given opportunity to serve as he received the Award bestowed at the Parliamentary Publication’s Annual Event

     

    (The NTAC DG and Directors of the Agency at the event.)

     

     

    By Biola Lawal

    The Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt.Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub has dedicated the award of “Most Outstanding Public Servant of the Year” he received at the Nigerian Assembly Orientation and Award 2025 to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The Award ceremony, which was held in Abuja on Wednesday, at the National Assembly Library Trust Funds Hall, was aimed at recognizing the best performing public servant in the non-legislative category across the country for the current year.

    This was disclosed in a statement by Nkem Anyata-Lafia, Special Assistant to the NTAC DG ( Media and Publicity), a copy of which was made available to FLOWERBUDNEWS on Wednesday.

    The event,which drew participants from across the country, was the 9th Edition of the Awards.

    Speaking at the event,the Publisher of Assembly News, a foremost Nigerian Parliamentary news tabloid, Prince Adeboye Omoboye, explained that the NTAC boss emerged best-peforming Public Servant from a national poll.

    (Rep.of the NOA DG and his Media Aide,Tolu Meduna,as she presents an Award to the Majority Leader of the Adamawa State House of Assembly at the event.)

     

    He lauded the NTAC DG for his commitment and sacrifice in the  national service and for, particularly, using the Technical Aid Corps Scheme in the last two and-half years of the Tinubu Administration to reposition Nigeria as a global giant in the areas of soft power and development diplomacy.

    While thanking President Tinubu for the opportunity to even serve the nation, the NTAC DG praised the promoters of the Awards for their visionary approach to progressive and developmental journalism.

    He also noted that diverse fora such as the day’s occasion were important to chronicle the nation’s history in an era when younger Nigerians were beginning to lose touch with the nation’s evolutionary processes.

    Earlier,while speaking on the theme of the day’s event,”A New Nigeria,”Director General of the Nigerian Orientation Agency, Issa Lanre-Onilu admonished Nigerians to rethink their responsibilities for the country.

    He said that the new 7 for 7 National Value Charter of the NOA had emphasised not only the aspects of what he termed “National Promise”,but its corresponding “Citizens’ Code”.

    He called on all Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of placing Nigeria above every consideration at all times.Onilu was represented at the event by his Special Assistant on Media,Tolu Meduna.

    The event,which saw the recognition of other Nigerians, including those from across the States, for various award categories,ended with a pledge to continue to push for a better Nigeria through parliamentary advocacy and media campaigns.

    Among those who accompanied the NTAC DG to the event were the Director of Administration,Amb.Yakubu Abdullahi Ahmed;that of Programmes,Amb.Zakari Usman as well as the Deputy Director and Head of Accounts,Mrs Meimunat Haruna-Mustapha.Others were the Assistant Director and Head of Internal Audits,Mr Adekola Lawal;his colleague ,Mr Mustapha Aliyu,an Assistant Director and Mr. Fehintola Adebowale, Assistant Director,Programmes,among others.

     

     

    About Flowerbudnews
    Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers.

    We are drawn from both public and private sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism..

    Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

    Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

    The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

    He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Margaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic account of the he ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

  • Tinubu’s Soft Power Diplomacy Initiative Yielding Results, Boosting Nigeria’s Image – Rt. Hon. Buba Yakub

    Tinubu’s Soft Power Diplomacy Initiative Yielding Results, Boosting Nigeria’s Image – Rt. Hon. Buba Yakub

     

     

    –  Says Jamaica has indicated interest to engage 400 Nigerian Experts

     


    By Majeed Ishola
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): President Bola Tinubu’s 4D soft power diplomacy policy initiative is already yielding results as Jamaica has indicated interest in engaging 400 Nigerian professional experts.

    The good news was announced by the
    Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, on Friday in Abuja at a press conference held to commemorate his two years in office as NTAC DG.

    A FLOWERBUDNEWS Corresponden who covered the Press Conference quoted Hon. Buba Yakub as saying that President Yinubu’s policy initiative and support has drastically boosted the operations of NTAC making beneficiary countries more appreciate and interested.

    The NTAC DG stated that President Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy agenda of – Democracy, Demography, Diaspora, and Development— had helped to transform and boosted NTAC operations in the past two years.

    He described the scheme as an instrument of soft power diplomacy that has, for 38 years, sent over 10,000 Nigerian experts to more than 40 countries.

    “Today, NTAC is at its highest peak since inception because of the President’s 4D agenda,” he affirmed, disclosing that, because of its current efficiency, Jamaica is already requesting for 400 paid Nigerian experts as evidence of the demand for Nigeria’s human capital.

    The DG also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, noting that since his appointment on August 23, 2023, and resumption on August 28, 2023, he has “hit the ground running” in line with the President’s directives.

    Reflecting on the state of NTAC when he assumed duty, the DG said he inherited 198 volunteers already in service, alongside significant financial challenges, including unpaid salaries and a ₦300 million debt.

    He recalled that currency fluctuations in 2024 had threatened deployments, but, buoyed by the President’s support, the Corps cleared its debts and resumed steady deployments.

    “From September 2023 till date, we have been deploying 2–3 times every month nonstop,” he said, adding that Nigeria has since maintained a steady global presence.

    Highlighting success stories, the DG noted that some Nigerian volunteers in The Gambia have risen to become Vice-Chancellors and Deputy Vice-Chancellors in leading universities.

    “This shows that Nigeria’s vibrant demography is not just being exported but is shaping global development,” he said.

    He also revealed infrastructure reforms within NTAC, including renovation of dilapidated offices and acquisition of new buses for operations—initiatives he kick-started with personal funds before federal budgetary support came through. “By the end of October 2025, we will have 450 volunteers in service, meeting 90% of our target,” he announced.

    Rt. Hon. Buba unveiled plans to further reposition NTAC as a hub for both soft power diplomacy and labour export.

    He explained that, while volunteers continued to serve freely under the TAC scheme, the Corps is exploring opportunities to export skilled Nigerian manpower on a commercial basis, in collaboration with host governments and international bodies like the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    He cited Jamaica’s request for 400 paid experts as evidence of the demand for Nigeria’s human capital.

    During the interactive session, he reiterated that NTAC aligned fully with the President’s foreign policy pillars. “When we send volunteers, we contribute to development; when they engage with Nigerians abroad, they reinforce the diaspora pillar. Our work is a practical expression of the 4D vision,” he stressed.

    The DG concluded by charging Nigerian youths to see NTAC as a platform not only for service but also for personal growth and national pride. “We are not just sending out volunteers; we are raising leaders who will come back to build Nigeria,” he declared.

    The media chat ended with group photographs, symbolizing NTAC’s renewed commitment to service, accountability, and Nigeria’s global leadership through soft power diplomacy. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

     

  • NTAC DG Lauds President Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Policy for Revitalizing Nigeria’s Soft Power Diplomacy

    NTAC DG Lauds President Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Policy for Revitalizing Nigeria’s Soft Power Diplomacy

     

     

    – Marks Two Years in Office

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 4D foreign relations initiative, noting that it has effectively boosted TAC operations.

    Rt Hon. Buba Yakub gave the commendation on Friday in Abuja, while speaking at a media chat help mark his two years in office during which he fully highlighted the achievements, challenges, and future vision of the agency under his stewardship, a statement by Ojo Olubunmi, Head (INFO/PR) NTAC disclosed.

    The NTAC DG stated that President Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy agenda of – Democracy, Demography, Diaspora, and Development— had played the major role in transforming and strengthening NTAC operations in the past two years.

    He described the scheme as an instrument of soft power diplomacy that has, for 38 years, sent over 10,000 Nigerian experts to more than 40 countries.

    “Today, NTAC is at its highest peak since inception because of the President’s 4D agenda,” he affirmed, disclosing that, because of its current efficiency, Jamaica is already requesting for 400 paid Nigerian experts as evidence of the demand for Nigeria’s human capital.

    The DG also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, noting that since his appointment on August 23, 2023, and resumption on August 28, 2023, he has “hit the ground running” in line with the President’s directives.

    Reflecting on the state of NTAC when he assumed duty, the DG said he inherited 198 volunteers already in service, alongside significant financial challenges, including unpaid salaries and a ₦300 million debt.

    He recalled that currency fluctuations in 2024 had threatened deployments, but, buoyed by the President’s support, the Corps cleared its debts and resumed steady deployments.

    “From September 2023 till date, we have been deploying 2–3 times every month nonstop,” he said, adding that Nigeria has since maintained a steady global presence.

    Highlighting success stories, the DG noted that some Nigerian volunteers in The Gambia have risen to become Vice-Chancellors and Deputy Vice-Chancellors in leading universities.

    “This shows that Nigeria’s vibrant demography is not just being exported but is shaping global development,” he said.

    He also revealed infrastructure reforms within NTAC, including renovation of dilapidated offices and acquisition of new buses for operations—initiatives he kick-started with personal funds before federal budgetary support came through. “By the end of October 2025, we will have 450 volunteers in service, meeting 90% of our target,” he announced.

    Rt. Hon. Buba unveiled plans to further reposition NTAC as a hub for both soft power diplomacy and labour export.

    He explained that, while volunteers continued to serve freely under the TAC scheme, the Corps is exploring opportunities to export skilled Nigerian manpower on a commercial basis, in collaboration with host governments and international bodies like the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    He cited Jamaica’s request for 400 paid experts as evidence of the demand for Nigeria’s human capital.

    During the interactive session, he reiterated that NTAC aligned fully with the President’s foreign policy pillars. “When we send volunteers, we contribute to development; when they engage with Nigerians abroad, they reinforce the diaspora pillar. Our work is a practical expression of the 4D vision,” he stressed.

    The DG concluded by charging Nigerian youths to see NTAC as a platform not only for service but also for personal growth and national pride. “We are not just sending out volunteers; we are raising leaders who will come back to build Nigeria,” he declared.

    The media chat ended with group photographs, symbolizing NTAC’s renewed commitment to service, accountability, and Nigeria’s global leadership through soft power diplomacy. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

     

  • NTAC DG Lauds Pres.Tinubu for Effectively Funding TAC, says it is Enhancing Good Image for Nigeria

    NTAC DG Lauds Pres.Tinubu for Effectively Funding TAC, says it is Enhancing Good Image for Nigeria

     

    — As Returning Volunteers Express Readiness to Impact Nigeria with Fesh Knowledge, New Discoveries


    By Biola Lawal
    Abuja (FLOWERBUDNEWS):
    Director General, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, has commended President Bola Tinubu for Effectively Funding TAC, as a mark of his steadfast support for the scheme and visionary leadership gir the Nation.

    Hon. Buba Yakub gave the commendation, during a ceremony to receive returning NTAC Volunteers who completed their 2-year service in Zanzibar on Monday.

    The ceremony provided an opportunity for the returning Volunteers to present to the Agency and its allied stakeholders, the experiences garnered and lessons learnt from their service in the host country, Zanzibar, a statement by Ojo Adetoun Olubunmi, Head, Information/Public Relations of NTAC disclosed.

    Welcoming the Volunteers,who discharged themselves as worthy Ambassadors in Zanzibar, Rt.Hon. Buba thanked them for their patriotism, dedication to service, and for making Nigeria proud on the international stage.

    The NTAC boss highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing, announcing that certificates of completion would be presented to the Volunteers in line with the noble objectives of the service.

    He also emphasized the Volunteers’ crucial role in passing on the skills and experiences gained in Zanzibar, expressing optimism that their efforts would positively impact the lives of Nigerians across the country and shape the expectations and service-delivery of future prospective Volunteers.

    Earlier, NTAC’s Director of Programmes, Ambassador Zakari Usman, expressed sincere gratitude to the DG for his unwavering support and provision for the Volunteers throughout their service period.

    He informed the DG that the Volunteers had performed very well and delivered on the mandate of the Agency to the extent that citizens of Zanzibar did not want them to leave their country.

    A representative of the batch of Volunteers and Team Lead,Adegoke Popoola,who spoke for them,was full of gratitude to the Federal Government for providing them the opportunity to participate in the Scheme.

    He said, although it always appeared like the grass is greener on the other side, ‘:Nigeria,as a country, is well blessed and has the abundance of both human and natural materials to contribute meaningfully to the development of many countries of the world.’:

    Popoola emphasised the need to continue the TAC Scheme, noting that TAC continuation should not be negotiable, due to its high impact and results.

    The ceremony, which was attended by key Directors and officers of the Agency, including Mrs. Meimunat Haruna- Mustapha,a Deputy Director and Head of Accounts, provided the Agency an opportunity for a continuous assessment of the impact the Scheme is making across the world, especially in the ACP countries. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)