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Nigeria Launches “Outsource to Nigeria Initiative” to Capture Share of $8.79 Trillion Global BPO Market
Nigeria Launches “Outsource to Nigeria Initiative” to Capture Share of $8.79 Trillion Global BPO Market
- Govt’s policies strategic to strengthen nation’s economy – VP Shettima
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has launched the “Outsource to Nigeria Initiative” (OTNI) saying the initiative is strategic to redirecting the talents and skills that abound in the country with a target of capturing a significant portion of the global BPO market valued at $8.79 trillion.
He noted that apart from producing millions of job opportunities and spurring Nigeria’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and IT-enabled services sector into growth that has never been witnessed before, the OTNI will link global firms with the abundant talents and skills in Nigeria.
The Vice President who spoke on Monday during the launch of the OTNI in Gombe State noted that the spotlight is now beaming on Nigeria, following the nation’s “abundance of talent, a competitive cost structure, a rapidly improving ICT infrastructure, and a strategically advantageous location.”
Delivering his address titled, “Bringing the World to Our Doorsteps,” VP Shettima described his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a visionary leader and “refined economic strategist” who has a firm grip on the distinction between the current situation in Nigeria and the route within the global landscape.
As such, he assured that the ongoing reforms being carried out by the Tinubu administration will soon guarantee a future where all Nigerians will be grateful for the “resilience and foresight displayed” in navigating the nation towards economic prosperity.
The Vice President who expressed confidence in the OTNI to turn around the economic fortunes of the country said, “Outsourcing, as an economic strategy, is not just about efficiency; it’s a profound recognition of our interconnectedness in the global economy. Outsourcing is also a strategy to counteract brain drain and channel our talents and skills into reconstructing a Nigeria that works.”
Noting that it’s time Nigeria recognized its potential, embraced and explored the markets that are yearning for the nation’s unique contributions, Senator Shettima pegged the global business process outsourcing (BPO) industry at 250 billion US dollars.
The VP continued: “The Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) symbolizes a pivotal alliance, a collaborative dance between the public and private sectors. This is a mission to produce millions of job opportunities and propel Nigeria’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and IT-enabled services sector into unprecedented growth.
“OTNI is here to connect global companies with the abundant talents and capabilities inherent in Nigeria. This initiative marks a strategic leap forward, positioning Nigeria as an emerging outsourcing powerhouse ready to make an indelible mark on the global economic landscape.
“Today, we are not only presenting to you the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTN) with the honourable aim of taking over the world. We present to you a lens to see the needs of the world, a bridge to interact with the world, and a vehicle to reach the world from the comfort of your offices and homes in Nigeria.”
Shettima implored Nigerians to be patient with the Tinubu administration in respect of the economic decisions taken so far, explaining that though it may present some temporary challenges, they are a strategic investment targeted at strengthening the fabric of the nation’s economy.
“The tough decisions we have taken may pose short-term challenges, but rest assured, it is a strategic investment to fortify the foundations of our economy. As your guarantee, I affirm that the reforms in progress will not only weather the storms but usher in a future where we shall stand grateful for the resilience and foresight displayed in propelling our nation towards economic prosperity,” he stated.
The Vice President further said Nigeria is on the verge of carving its own narrative within the global BPO landscape, as well as contributing to solidifying its role as a key player in the international business arena.
With “a colossal talent pool exceeding 200 million people and complemented by competitive labour costs, an evolving ICT infrastructure, unwavering government support, and a strategic location in proximity to European markets,” the VP said the aforementioned factors have positioned Nigeria “as a prime outsourcing destination.
On his part, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, noted that the decision to launch the ‘Outsource To Nigeria Initiative (OTNI)’ in the state was not a mere coincidence, pointing out that it “is a testament to the State’s burgeoning potential and the exemplary strides we have made in fostering an enabling environment for technology innovation and economic growth.”
Governor Inuwa explained that the partnership with Outsource Global is an indication of the tangible support the state government is willing to provide to businesses that choose to invest in Gombe State.
“This strategic investment not only creates job opportunities but also signifies our proactive approach to providing the necessary infrastructure and resources to attract and support private investment,” he added.
For her part, the Founder/CEO of OTNI, Hajiya Amal Hassan, pegged the value of the Global BPO & ITES Market at USD 8.79 trillion US Dollars in 2024, with India and the Philippines dominating at least 60% of the market.
She noted that Nigeria boasts of “the highest potential among key African countries,” and is expected to register the fastest growth in the African BPO industry backed by various tailwinds,” even as the nation’s “demographics are well-suited to take advantage of the current global trend in global business.”
She explained that the initiative will be accomplished through streamlined processes, using OTNI’s “digital platform WorkNation to help partners find, train, and deploy talents according to their requirements.
“Our goal is to showcase Nigeria as the preferred outsourcing destination, connecting Nigerian youth to global job opportunities, attracting investments, empowering youth, and boosting the economy through business process outsourcing and IT services,” she added.
Also, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President, Office and Coordination, Dr. Usman Mohammed, said the Outsource Initiative, with the Office of the Vice President as the anchor, is a game changer for Nigeria which has come to stay and flourish in the country.
He pointed out that “by harnessing the power of the private sector and leveraging government support”, the government is “laying the foundation for economic growth.”
Describing the launch of the initiative as a transformation that promises prosperity for millions of young Nigerians, he said, “I stand before you sir with pride and gratitude as we embark on this collaborative effort between the Office of the Vice President and Outsource Global. Together we are ushering in a new era of economic empowerment and opportunity for our nation in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda set forth by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Highpoint of the launch of the OTNI was the commissioning and inspection of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Centre by Vice President Shettima.
The BPO Centre, the first in the North East geopolitical zone, is expected to provide over 2,000 job opportunities to the youth population of Gombe State and even beyond.
The Gombe BPO Centre located at the Amina Mohammed Skills Acquisition Centre along the Gombe- Biu Bypass, makes the state a hub for outsourcing services, leveraging the skills and potential of its youths.
Other dignitaries who attended the event included Jigawa State Governor, Mallam Umar Namadi; the Deputy Governor of Borno and Gombe States; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the Emirs of Gombe and Funakaye, as well as Secretary to Gombe State Government, Prof Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, among others.
Nigeria Launches “Outsource to Nigeria Initiative” to Capture Share of $8.79 Trillion Global BPO Market
VP Shettima: Hajiya Sutura Shagari Will Be Remembered For Her Selflessness, Compassion
- Leads FG delegation on condolence visit to the late former president’s family in Sokoto
By: Michael Mike
The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has described the passing of Hajiya Sutura Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of former President Shehu Shagari as a huge loss to Nigeria, saying she will be remembered for her life of compassionate and selfless service to her community and the nation at large.
Senator Shettima spoke on Sunday when he led the Federal Government delegation to condole with the Shagari family over the demise of the matriarch of the Shagari family in their residence in Sokoto State.
Announcing the death of the last surviving wife of the former President, a statement signed by the eldest son of the former President and Sarkin Mafaran Shagari, Capt. Bala Shagari, had noted that the late Hajiya Sutura died at about 3pm on Monday, November 10, 2025, after a prolonged illness at the age of 79.
Commiserating with the Shagari family in Sokoto, the Vice President who said he was in the state at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prayed for the repose of Hajiya Sutura’s soul, as well as comfort for the family and the Sultanate.
“We are here at the instance of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to condole with the government and people of Sokoto State, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and the immediate family of our late President, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, over the sad event of the passing of his last surviving wife, Hajia Sutura Aliyu Usman Shagari,” he stated.
Vice President Shettima also prayed Almighty Allah to reward the departed with Aljannah Firdaus, as well as the fortitude for the immediate family, Sokoto State and the entire nation to bear the loss.
“May Allah grant her soul eternal rest and reward her with Aljana Firdaus. May Allah also grant the family and the good people of Sokoto and the nation as a whole, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he prayed.
Earlier, the Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, thanked the Vice President for the show of love and concern about not only the Shagari family but the entire Sokoto State.
“The visit is a gesture which speaks volumes for having you in our midst today. Distinguished audience, you may recall that the Vice President has been here almost, I can say, four times since the inception of our administration. This is a show of love and the concern.
“We thank you most sincerely; we thank you for your coming. We pray Allah to give you sound health, and to give you courage to continue the good work you are doing for this great country,” the Governor told VP Shettima.
Also, leader of the Shagari family and District Head of Shagari, Capt. Bala Shagari (rtd), thanked the Vice President for leading the Federal Government’s delegation to condole with the family.
He said it was a great honour having the Federal Government’s delegation sent by President Tinubu to condole with the Shagari family in their moment of grief, even as he also thanked the state Governor for taking care of the Shagari family.
Also in attendance were the Minister of State for Works, Senator Bello Mohammed Goronyo; former Attorney -General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bello Mohammed Adoke, and former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Mukhtari Shagari, among other senior government officials.
VP Shettima: Hajiya Sutura Shagari Will Be Remembered For Her Selflessness, Compassion
Duke of Edinburgh Visits Nigeria to Host Series of Events, Meets Tinubu
By: Michael Mike
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh is expected in the country to host a series of events in Lagos, Nigeria from 17 – 23 November 2025 to champion the expansion of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award across the world.
He is also expected to meet President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, and get involved in some other activities at the nation’s capital.
According to a statement on Sunday, Prince Edward, as Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, will convene almost 200 young people from more than 50 countries over the week, alongside hundreds of leaders delivering the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award globally, policymakers, and representatives from global youth movements.
Young people will take part in an intensive three-day youth leadership programme, before taking part in the International Award’s triennial Forum focused on expanding access to the Award globally.
Last year almost 1.2 million young people in more than 130 countries took part in the Award. While young people in the UK make up around half of all participants, Kenya has the second-highest number of young people involved in the Award. In Nigeria – where this week’s events are taking place – participation has surged by 37% in the past year, reflecting increasing interest across West Africa.
On the eve of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award turning 70 next year, new analysis about the global impact of the Award shows that the social value generated by young people completing the Award in the last year has exceeded £1 billion for the first time. The social value is calculated through a robust methodology developed by PWC quantifying the impact of volunteering, improved mental and physical health, and social cohesion.
The Award has gained increasing momentum in recent years, as the likes of the World Bank, World Economic Forum and International Labor Organisation have placed strong emphasis on skills developed beyond the classroom, such as teamwork, communication skills, resilience and problem-solving.
Over the course of the week the Duke of Edinburgh will meet the President of Nigeria in Abuja, convene senior ministers and international development agencies in Lagos to foster deeper collaboration on non-formal education and take part in major events hosted by the Governor of Lagos and the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos.
Secretary General of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award worldwide, Mr. Martin Houghton-Brown, commented that: “More and more young people across the world are taking on the challenge of the Award, and embracing learning outside the classroom. Through smartphones and AI, young people can access the world’s knowledge in seconds fingertips, but the Award is providing a fresh challenge and helping young people develop the skills that give them the ‘human edge’. From team work to creativity, determination to flexibility, the Award is helping young people across the world become World Ready. Our gathering here in Lagos is focused on significantly increasing opportunities for young people in every country to take on the Award’s challenge and opportunity.”
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter said: “The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award exemplifies the potential of Nigeria’s young people, and that is important because Nigeria’s success matters deeply to the UK. As partners, we share a commitment to empower the next generation, create jobs, and unlock economic potential. We applaud Nigeria’s bold reforms and are optimistic that these plans will remove constraints on Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit and help move Nigeria forward. The UK stands ready to work together to drive growth, stability, and prosperity for the benefit of both our countries.”
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global framework for non-formal education, empowering young people to develop skills, resilience, and a spirit of service. It is delivered through schools, youth organisations, and community groups worldwide.
Founded in 1956 by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, the Award has grown from a UK-based initiative into the world’s most widely recognised youth achievement framework delivered in more than 130 countries and territories, with 1.2 million participants annually. The Award equips young people aged 14 to 24 with essential skills for life and work, including confidence, empathy, teamwork, resilience and leadership, through experiential learning beyond the classroom.
As the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award approaches its 70th anniversary, more than 1,500 young people begin their Award journey every day, engaging in activities from environmental restoration and volunteering to skills development and adventurous journeys.
Duke of Edinburgh Visits Nigeria to Host Series of Events, Meets Tinubu
Border Governance: NIS, IOM Strengthen Collaboration
By: Michael Mike
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) as part of its efforts at enhancing border management, has reinforced its collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
The collaboration aims to strengthen institutional cooperation for effective migration management and border governance in Nigeria.
At a meeting, held in Lagos, themed “Strengthening Strategic Collaboration for Effective Migration Management and Border Governance.” NIS Zonal Coordinator, ACG Echefulam Anugwa, hailed the partnership as a model for government–international organisation collaboration, commending IOM for its continued support.
Goodwill messages from donor agencies, including the British High Commission, German Consulate, and Dutch Consulate highlighted the importance of leveraging the partnership for improved border governance.
In her keynote address, NIS Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap noted that the engagement offered a strategic opportunity to review NIS–IOM cooperation and chart a roadmap for deeper collaboration towards modernized, technology-driven border management.
She acknowledged IOM’s contribution to institutional reforms, operational capacity enhancement, and policy development, including the National Border Management Strategy.
IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Dimanche Sharon, on his part, commended NIS for its visionary leadership, citing its regional reference status in digital border governance through systems such as MIDAS, e-Border solutions, and enhanced identity management.
He emphasized that the engagement would help identify operational gaps, capacity needs, and areas for impactful interventions in the next phase of NIS–IOM partnership.
The two-day engagement includes high-level presentations and technical sessions, aimed at producing actionable recommendations and a joint roadmap to guide future NIS–IOM collaborations.
The initiative is expected to bolster Nigeria’s leadership in migration management and border governance in West and Central Africa.
During the engagement the two organisations, NIS and IOM issued a communique identifying their key priority areas.
The actionable deliveries on the key priority areas include: Policy & Legislation; Institutional & Capacity Development; Infrastructure Development & Equipment; Migration Management; Border Governance and Legal Identity Solution
Border Governance: NIS, IOM Strengthen Collaboration
VP Shettima: Hajiya Sutura Shagari Will Be Remembered For Her Selflessness, Compassion
Duke of Edinburgh Visits Nigeria to Host Series of Events, Meets Tinubu
Border Governance: NIS, IOM Strengthen Collaboration
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