By correspondent.
Photo credit: Rita media.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called on telecom operators to implement flexible work policies, enhance remuneration, and cultivate a culture of innovation to retain talent in Nigeria’s telecom sector.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC,emphasized the urgent need for these changes during the Fifth Edition of the Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF 5.0) in Lagos.
The forum which has the themed “Mitigating the Effects of Talent Exodus and its Impact on the Growth of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Industry,” stressed the critical role of skilled professionals in driving innovation and development.
Represented by Mr. Tunji Jimoh, the NCC Lagos Zonal Controller, Maida noted that many of Nigeria’s top tech talents are pursuing better opportunities abroad, creating significant skills gaps that threaten the sustainability of the telecom sector.
A report from the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) revealed that over 500 software engineers and more than 2,000 telecom professionals left Nigeria in 2022 alone.
Maida warned that if this trend continues unchecked, it could jeopardize the growth of the industry.
He stressed that professionals seek environments where they feel valued and can explore new ideas. “Implementing remote work options, continuous learning opportunities, and collaborative spaces will make the local telecom sector more attractive,” he said.
The NCC boss also emphasized the importance of ongoing upskilling and reskilling for the existing workforce.
“Investing in professional development not only enhances competencies but also incentivizes talent to remain, knowing they have career advancement opportunities,” he added.
Maida also urged telecom companies to partner with universities and training institutions to develop tailored programs that equip graduates with industry-relevant skills, fostering a pipeline of ambitious professionals eager to contribute to Nigeria’s telecom landscape.
Regarding the NCC’s efforts, Maida said that the commission ‘s initiatives were to promote local content, enhance infrastructure, and create a conducive environment for digital growth.
The NCC is actively involved in the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Program, aimed at training three million Nigerians in digital skills by 2027.
The commission has also partnered with Nokia to establish a 4G/5G test lab to equip young Nigerians with necessary industry skills, according to Maida.
In her address of welcome,TSSF 5.0 Convener and Managing Editor of Business Remarks, Bukola Olanrewaju, pointed out that human capital flight poses significant challenges, including talent loss, diminished innovation, and reduced intellectual capital.
The so-called “Japa” syndrome, referring to the migration of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, has impacted not just telecom but various sectors, notably banking, which has suffered from depleted IT departments leading to network outages and service disruptions,he noted.
