Nigeria Sets Sights on $3.7 Billion Outsourcing Windfall
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate approximately $3.7 billion in annual revenue by equipping Nigerian youths with skills to compete in the global outsourcing market. This strategic initiative was announced during a one-day workshop held on November 9, 2025, at the Council's Regional Office in Apapa, Lagos.
Transforming Nigeria's Export Landscape
During the workshop titled "Leveraging Business Process Outsourcing for Non-Oil Export Growth," stakeholders highlighted Nigeria's enormous potential in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector. Mrs Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, represented by Mr Sunday Ayodele, revealed that expanding Nigeria's BPO workforce from 16,000 to 200,000 practitioners could boost monthly earnings to $292 million and annual revenue to the targeted $3.7 billion.
"This event aims to sensitise and equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and practical skills required to offer BPO services that meet international standards," Ayeni stated. She emphasized that this initiative aligns with NEPC's broader goal of diversifying Nigeria's export base through service-oriented ventures.
Knowledge as Capital in the Digital Economy
Dr Madu Obiora, founder of BPO Academy, delivered an inspiring message to participants, urging them to strengthen their skills and embrace innovation. "You don't need capital to offer services; what you're selling is here," he declared, pointing to his head. "Knowledge is your biggest asset. Once you have it, you can compete globally."
Using practical examples and storytelling, Obiora explained various outsourcing categories including:
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
- Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO)
- Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO)
- Creative Process Outsourcing (CPO)
He highlighted how globalization and technology have eliminated geographical barriers, enabling Nigerian professionals to work remotely for international companies. "The world is flat," Obiora explained, referencing Thomas Friedman's book on globalization. "Today, it doesn't matter where you are, whether in London, Lagos, or Delhi; what matters is the quality of your service and the knowledge you bring to the table."
Embracing the Future of Work
Ayodele Sunday, Assistant Director of the Services Department at NEPC, emphasized the critical importance of self-reliance and digital presence for Nigerian youths. "We must intentionally look out for opportunities, build professional communication skills, and remain relevant in the digital workspace," he advised. "Government jobs are no longer the solution; remote work and service exportation are the future."
Sunday noted that many Nigerians are already earning sustainable incomes through remote jobs and encouraged participants to leverage insights from the workshop to build careers that benefit both personal growth and national economic development. "This engagement is to help us reduce dependence on government jobs," he stated. "Let's use what we've learned to improve our lives, our families, and ultimately, the Nigerian economy."
The workshop concluded with strong encouragement for continuous self-development, with both Ayeni and other speakers urging participants to constantly seek new knowledge and maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
