The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has embarked on a mission to Sierra Leone to explore opportunities for collaboration in critical sectors to boost national development.

A statement by Ojo Olubunmi, head of the information and public relations unit of the NTAC, said the Director-General, Yusuf Yakub, led the delegation.

He said the mission was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, deepen South-South cooperation, and advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He added that the visit aligned with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and underscored Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration, human capital development, and mutually beneficial partnerships across Africa.

The delegation embarked on a courtesy visit to Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, where it was received by the Minister, Haja Wurie, and the Permanent Secretary, Mohamed Karbo.

Discussions at the ministry focused on strengthening educational cooperation through academic partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, technical support programmes, knowledge exchange, and human resource development.

Mr Yakub reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing education across Africa by deploying qualified professionals under the NTAC scheme.

He described education as a critical driver of sustainable development, economic growth, innovation and regional integration.

The delegation also visited Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health, where it was received by the Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Charles Seusse, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr Phillip Karsho.

Discussions at the health ministry centred on expanding bilateral cooperation in healthcare through technical assistance, professional development, capacity building and the deployment of skilled Nigerian health professionals.

Mr Yakub reiterated the NTAC’s commitment to remaining a key instrument for advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives by promoting goodwill, strengthening African solidarity and facilitating knowledge transfer among developing nations.

He added that the NTAC continued to contribute significantly to sustainable development and shared prosperity across Africa and beyond.

A major highlight of the mission was the monitoring and evaluation of 24 Technical Aid Corps volunteers serving in educational and health institutions across Sierra Leone.

The exercise enabled the delegation to assess the volunteers’ performance, achievements, and challenges, as well as evaluate the overall impact of the scheme in the host country.

Mr Yakub commended the volunteers for their professionalism, dedication and patriotism, describing them as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria.

He said their services continued to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Sierra Leone while contributing to the socio-economic development of the host country.

The delegation expressed appreciation to the government and people of Sierra Leone for their hospitality and continued support for the NTAC programme. 

(NAN)