FG: NATEP Will Unlock Human Capital Potential and Strengthen Partnerships

By Emma Okonji

One year after its strategic relaunch, the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) has made notable institutional strides, achieved key policy milestones, and forged international partnerships that have positioned Nigeria as a leading talent hub in the global services export market, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment reported.

The ministry said the most pivotal milestone occurred in November 2025 when the Federal Executive Council approved the creation of the National Coordination Mechanism for Services Exports (NCMSE). This formal governance framework aims to enhance inter‑agency coordination, align national policy with global digital trade, and accelerate the growth of Nigeria’s services export sector.

“Since its approval, the NCMSE has provided the institutional architecture for bringing together previously disconnected programmes, agencies, and stakeholders under a common services export agenda,” the statement added.

Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, quoted in the statement, said: “We are witnessing a shift in the global economy, where greater value and the competitive advantage will be determined by a nation’s ability to cultivate talent, harness deep knowledge‑based industries, and participate in high‑value services markets built seamlessly across borders.”

National Coordinator of NATEP Teju Abisoye said the programme’s mandate is to position Nigeria as a premier global talent hub by building an enabling ecosystem through policy, platforms, promotion, and partnerships.