“LEAVE BEHIND YOUR WEAKNESSES AND GO WITH YOUR STRENGTHS” - Buba charges as 18 Volunteers Depart for Liberia and Rwanda

“LEAVE BEHIND YOUR WEAKNESSES AND GO WITH YOUR STRENGTHS”

- Buba charges as 18 Volunteers Depart for Liberia and Rwanda

The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has deployed 18 volunteers—12 to Liberia and 6 to Rwanda—under the Technical Aid Corps Scheme, further strengthening Nigeria’s international cooperation and soft power diplomacy.

In his keynote address, the Director-General of NTAC, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Buba Yakub, welcomed the volunteers and expressed delight at their readiness to serve. He emphasized that such deployments were made possible by the visionary 4D policy agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which has elevated Nigeria’s global image. “The President’s passion and funding support have made Nigeria a pride to all nations of the world,” he said.

The DG described NTAC as an instrument of soft power diplomacy, created to extend Nigeria’s technical expertise to fellow African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries. He noted that since its inception 38 years ago, the scheme has sent over 10,000 experts to more than 40 countries, promoting cultural exchange, friendship, and humanitarian service.  

Charging the volunteers to uphold the dignity of Nigeria, he said: “Leave behind your weaknesses and go with your strengths. You are now technical diplomats carrying official passports. Conduct yourselves in a way that shows the world that Nigerians are good, well-trained people.” He urged them to embrace contentment, manage resources wisely, and return as better, more experienced individuals.  

He also reminded them of success stories of TAC volunteers who rose to leadership positions, including Vice-Chancellors of universities. He ended by once again thanking President Tinubu for his unwavering funding and moral support, which has continued to showcase Nigeria globally.  

Earlier, Amb. Zakari Usman, the Director of Programmes NTAC applauded the DG’s leadership and commended the President’s vision. He welcomed the volunteers, congratulating them on their selection, and reminded them that they represent the entire nation. “You are a direct reflection of Nigeria; carry yourselves as such,” he stated.  

In his remarks, the Team Leader, Professor Solomon Ogbu, expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleagues for being chosen out of millions of Nigerians who applied for this opportunity. He promised to make the DG and Nigerians proud, noting that Rwanda, in particular, is reputed to be one of the cleanest and most hospitable countries in Africa, offering an excellent environment for success. “We go in good faith, and we will excel,” he affirmed.  

The event concluded with group photographs, symbolizing NTAC’s pride in yet another milestone of service, international cooperation, and national representation.