Federal Government Opens Doors for Nigerians: New Partnership Offers Foreign Job Opportunities

On May 21st, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria, the Federal Government took a significant step towards expanding employment opportunities for its citizens. Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UTEL Ltd., a subsidiary of a leading Kuwaiti expatriate recruitment agency. This partnership, facilitated by the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), aims to connect qualified Nigerians with foreign jobs in Kuwait, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and Scandinavia.


This initiative marks a turning point in Nigeria’s employment landscape. The MoU goes beyond simply facilitating direct foreign employment. It also embraces the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) model, creating opportunities for skilled Nigerians to find gainful employment within the country while catering to international clients. This “dual-pronged” approach tackles unemployment from both angles, offering a wider range of options for Nigerians seeking fulfilling careers.

The partnership with UTEL aligns with the government’s strategy to foster international collaborations and address the issue of illegal migration. By providing well-defined and reputable pathways for Nigerian talent to work abroad, NATEP aims to discourage individuals from resorting to unsafe and unauthorized means of seeking employment overseas.

The signing ceremony itself served as a testament to this commitment. The announcement of 250 immediate job openings for Nigerians in various sectors underscores the government’s dedication to leveraging global partnerships to enhance job prospects for its citizens.


The MoU outlines a unique “1+2” approach. For every Nigerian placed in a foreign job, the program will facilitate the creation of an outsourced role within the Nigerian BPO ecosystem. Additionally, it will support the training of another Nigerian citizen, further strengthening the domestic talent pool. This ensures a long-term benefit by not only creating immediate opportunities but also investing in the future of Nigeria’s workforce.


Dr. Femi Adeluyi, National Coordinator of NATEP, emphasized the mutually beneficial nature of the program. The statement released by his office highlights how NATEP facilitates the “honourable export” of Nigerian talent, fostering positive international collaborations while simultaneously combating illegal migration.

The presence of dignitaries from Kuwait, Oman, and Norway at the signing ceremony reinforces this international support. Their participation signifies a collective effort to create a win-win situation for both Nigeria and its partner nations by facilitating the flow of skilled labor.

The Minister’s assurance regarding Nigeria’s commitment to upskilling its workforce further strengthens this collaboration. By investing in education and training programs, Nigeria guarantees a pool of qualified and adaptable workers ready to contribute to both domestic and international markets.


The MoU between the Federal Government and UTEL Ltd. represents a significant step forward for Nigerian talent. This partnership offers a beacon of hope, providing structured pathways for Nigerians to secure rewarding careers abroad and contribute their skills to the global economy. The program’s focus on both direct foreign employment and BPO opportunities ensures inclusivity, catering to a wider range of skillsets and aspirations. Ultimately, this initiative serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to empowering its citizens and creating a brighter future for the Nigerian workforce.