By Seyi Odewale
The Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) has stepped up Nigeria’s technical aid diplomacy in the Caribbean following a high-level engagement in Trinidad and Tobago aimed at deepening South–South cooperation.
The delegation, led by NTAC Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, Yusuf Buba Yakub, undertook the visit on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of broader efforts to expand Nigeria’s diplomatic reach and strengthen mutually beneficial partnerships with Caribbean nations.
During the visit, the team met with officials from Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs and engaged with the Nigerian Embassy to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation within the South–South framework.
The discussions centred on expanding collaboration in technical assistance, capacity building, education, healthcare and cultural exchange—key pillars of Nigeria’s foreign policy engagement across the Global South.
At the meetings, NTAC officials interacted with senior government stakeholders to identify priority areas for deeper cooperation, reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in development partnerships among developing countries.
The engagement was attended by Chargé d’Affaires a.i., Dankaro Angye Ashumate, and Head of Chancery, Linda Hills, reflecting the importance both countries attach to strengthening diplomatic and development ties.
Yakub said Nigeria is ready to expand its technical assistance programmes in Trinidad and Tobago, building on existing ties.
“Nigeria remains committed to broadening the scope of its technical assistance programmes, leveraging our shared history and cultural affinity to drive development.”
He noted that the initiative aligns with the administration’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a reliable partner in addressing shared challenges across developing nations.
Other members of the delegation included Director of Programmes, Bello Jaye, and senior NTAC officials who contributed to discussions on future collaboration.
The visit also highlighted Nigeria’s achievements under the Technical Aid Corps scheme, which has facilitated the deployment of thousands of professionals to countries across Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.
“This engagement underscores Nigeria’s enduring commitment to mutual respect, shared development and effective South–South cooperation.”
The mission marks another step in strengthening Nigeria–Trinidad and Tobago relations while advancing Nigeria’s technical aid diplomacy under the current administration.
