In a bid to enhance trade, foster development, and strengthen diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, the Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Rt. Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, led a delegation to Cotonou on Monday to meet with Benin’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Eleonore Yayi Ladekan.
A statement released on April 3, 2025, by Kauthar Hassan Ibrahim Gwarzo, NTAC’s Principal Information and Public Relations Officer, outlined the objectives and outcomes of the meeting.
During discussions, Yakub underscored the critical role of NTAC in promoting South-South cooperation by deploying skilled Nigerian professionals to assist partner nations in their development efforts. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening ties with Benin, particularly through language learning and cultural exchange initiatives.
“Our aim is to eliminate language barriers that hinder closer relationships among our people. This is a fundamental goal of diplomatic engagements,” Yakub stated. “By addressing these linguistic challenges, we can enhance trade and drive better economic outcomes. Language should not be a limitation to progress.”
As part of this initiative, NTAC plans to deploy English language teachers to Benin to support English proficiency while encouraging the learning of French among Nigerians. The ultimate objective is to bridge the language divide and enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, services, and cultural relations.
Minister Eleonore Yayi Ladekan welcomed the NTAC delegation and expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s ongoing support. She commended NTAC’s contributions to capacity building in Benin, particularly through the Nigerian International School in Cotonou, which has played a pivotal role in educational development over the years.
She further reaffirmed Benin’s commitment to sustaining and expanding its cooperation with Nigeria for mutual benefits. Additionally, she conveyed Benin’s appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its dedication to fostering development and progress across Africa.
Accompanying the NTAC DG were the Director of Programmes at NTAC, Amb. Zakari Usman, along with other officials and representatives from the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou, including Mubarak Mohammed Mantu and Emmanuel Nwosa.
On the Beninese side, Minister Ladekan was joined by officials including Ahounouikpe F. Judith, Gbenou Victoria V., Lalaye A. Philippe, Youssa A. Juaka, and Akpovi Salvadore.
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