Nigeria Unveils Ambitious Outsource Initiative to Transform Global Standing
By Matthew Eloyi
In a groundbreaking event held in Gombe on Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima launched the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI), a strategic move aimed at elevating Nigeria’s economic standing on the global stage. The Vice President, speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, outlined the transformative potential of the initiative and the country’s commitment to becoming a key player in the international business arena.
Senator Shettima began by acknowledging Nigeria’s vast potential and lamenting its underperformance in the global economy despite possessing significant advantages. He emphasized the need for the nation to recognize itself as an epicenter of knowledge, an incubator of innovation, and a nurturer of brilliance.
The Senator highlighted the untapped treasure within Nigeria’s demographic dividends, urging a shift in focus to harness the nation’s potential in the knowledge economy. He pointed out the distinct “Nigerian spirit of excellence” that thrives globally, citing examples from cities such as Aberdeen, Melbourne, and Zurich.
The Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI), presented by Senator Shettima, serves as a gateway for Nigeria to connect with the world, providing a lens to see global needs, a bridge to interact, and a vehicle to reach international markets from the comfort of Nigerian offices and homes.
The Senator stressed that outsourcing is not merely about efficiency but a profound recognition of Nigeria’s interconnectedness in the global economy. It is also a strategic approach to counteract brain drain and channel talents and skills into reconstructing a more prosperous Nigeria.
Senator Shettima applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision, describing him as a refined economic strategist whose decisions, though posing short-term challenges, are strategic investments to fortify the foundations of Nigeria’s economy.
Focusing on the global business process outsourcing (BPO) industry valued at over $250 billion, Senator Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential. He highlighted the nation’s abundant talent pool, competitive cost structure, improving ICT infrastructure, and advantageous location, positioning Nigeria as a prime outsourcing destination.
The Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) signifies a pivotal alliance between the public and private sectors, aiming to create millions of job opportunities and propel Nigeria’s BPO and IT-enabled services sector into unprecedented growth. It marks a strategic leap forward, positioning Nigeria as an emerging outsourcing powerhouse ready to make a lasting impact on the global economic landscape.
In conclusion, Senator Shettima invited global business leaders and partners to join Nigeria in utilizing the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative, describing it as a vehicle to limitless opportunities. The launch event was attended by tech-savvy youth, government officials, and industry leaders, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward economic prosperity and global relevance.