The exodus of talent in the Nigerian telecommunications sector has become a major issue that seriously threatens the future of this strategic industry. The flight of over 500 software engineers and over 2,000 trained professionals from the telecommunications sector in 2022 alone is alarming, and requires immediate action to reverse this worrying trend.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) sounded the alarm at the fifth Telecoms Sustainability Forum, stressing the need for telecom companies to implement flexible work policies, improve remuneration packages and promote a culture of innovation. Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, stressed the importance of creating a rewarding and enabling environment for talent development to retain skilled professionals and ensure the continued growth of the sector.
The growing global demand for tech talent has prompted many of Nigeria’s bright minds to seek more lucrative opportunities abroad, leading to a brain drain. If left unchecked, this trend could lead to a skills shortage that is detrimental to the sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
The brain drain of telecom professionals, as highlighted in a report by the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), is a serious impediment to progress and innovation in the industry. Dr. Maida called on telecom companies to provide more attractive working conditions, such as remote working options, continuous learning opportunities and collaborative spaces that foster creativity, to make the local telecom sector more attractive to professionals seeking opportunities abroad.
He also highlighted the importance of skills development initiatives to improve the skills of the existing workforce, investing in professional development to enrich the talent pool of companies and providing incentives for employees to stay in Nigeria, knowing that they have opportunities for career advancement.
In conclusion, it is imperative for Nigeria to take concrete steps to stop the exodus of talent in the telecommunications sector and preserve its potential for growth and innovation. Telecommunications companies must act quickly to retain skilled professionals and provide an attractive work environment that fosters creativity and professional development. The future of the telecommunications sector in Nigeria depends on the ability to retain its talent and drive innovation to remain competitive on the international stage.