The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called upon telecom operators in Nigeria to implement flexible work policies, enhance compensation, and cultivate a culture of innovation to attract and retain talent amidst a growing exodus of skilled professionals abroad.
This appeal arises in the context of the “Japa” syndrome, a term used to describe the trend of Nigerians migrating for better opportunities, which has become a pressing challenge across various sectors, particularly in telecommunications.
During the Fifth Edition of the Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF 5.0), themed “Mitigating the Effects of Talent Exodus and its Impact on the Growth of Nigeria’s Telecommunications Industry,” NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, highlighted that talent is essential for driving innovation and development. He warned that the loss of skilled professionals could significantly hinder the industry’s progress.
Represented by Mr. Tunji Jimoh, the NCC’s Lagos Zonal Controller, Maida pointed out that the global demand for tech talent has led many of Nigeria’s most talented individuals to seek lucrative positions abroad, resulting in a skills gap that threatens the sustainability of the telecom sector. According to a report from the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), over 500 software engineers and more than 2,000 trained telecom professionals left the country in 2022 alone.
To counter the ongoing brain drain, Maida emphasised the importance of creating an appealing work environment where professionals feel valued and engaged. He suggested that offering remote work options, continuous learning opportunities, and collaborative spaces can make the local telecom sector more attractive to potential talent.
Maida also stressed the need for telecom companies to invest in upskilling and reskilling their existing workforce, stating that professional development opportunities not only enhance employee competencies but also provide incentives for talent retention.
He urged the telecom sector to actively collaborate with universities, technical schools, and training institutes to develop tailored programmes that equip graduates with relevant skills, thereby addressing the talent gap and creating a pipeline of ambitious professionals ready to build their careers in Nigeria.
The NCC is taking proactive steps to mitigate talent migration through various initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous content, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering an enabling environment for digital growth. This includes participation in the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, which aims to train three million Nigerians in digital skills by 2027, as well as a partnership with Nokia to establish a 4G/5G test lab for skill development.
Mrs. Bukola Olanrewaju, the Convener of TSSF 5.0 and Managing Editor of Business Remarks, highlighted that human capital flight presents substantial challenges for the telecom industry, including the loss of talent, diminished innovation, and a depletion of intellectual capital.