Industry leaders in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector are calling for the implementation of robust Talent Management Systems to address the growing issue of talent exodus, which is impacting the country’s workforce.
For years, the Nigerian economy has been plagued by brain drain, with highly skilled professionals leaving for better opportunities abroad. The telecom industry has not been spared, facing high rates of resignations and migrations.
While this has caused challenges, some industry experts see an opportunity to reshape the sector by integrating more talent into the pipeline.At the 5th edition of the Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum (TSSF 5.0), organised by Business Remarks, a panel of experts discussed solutions under the theme: “Mitigating the Effect of Talent Exodus on Nigeria’s Telecom Growth.”
Moderated by COO of WTES Project, Chidi Ajuzie, the panel highlighted both the challenges and opportunities brought by talent migration.
CEO of Digital Realty, Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, emphasised the importance of a structured approach to training and retraining telecom professionals.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s large population could be leveraged to retain talent, and suggested making employment policies more flexible and adaptable to reduce the effects of talent loss. Nnamani also noted that the data centre subsector has been less affected by talent migration compared to other sectors.
Femi Adeluyi, from the National Association of Telecom Professionals (NATEP), spoke on government policies and initiatives to retain and attract ICT professionals.
He highlighted that talent export could benefit the local economy, using India as a case study where talent migration has led to significant technological and economic growth. He advocated for a balanced approach that would allow for talent export while ensuring local development.
Managing director of Zoracom, John Nwachukwu, stressed the need for businesses to create retention plans and supportive work environments to hold onto talent.
Similarly, CEO of Infratel, Dr. Tola Yusuf encouraged continuous staff training to improve retention and foster a positive work environment.
CEO of Jidaw Systems, Jide Awe, also pointed to India’s successful strategy of encouraging software development and talent migration as a model for Nigeria.
He explained that by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, India has attracted foreign investment and created jobs, demonstrating that talent export can be a win-win for both the home and host countries.
Representing ICSL CEO, Yemi Oshodi, Tinuade Oguntuyi highlighted the far-reaching impact of brain drain in the telecom sector, including service disruptions and a decline in innovation. She stressed the need for investment in talent development and a conducive work environment to retain professionals in Nigeria.
CEO of Impulso Integrated Services, Akinyele Oludare, noted that talent migration is often driven by limited growth opportunities and the allure of higher earnings abroad. While this trend poses challenges for the sector, it also has benefits, such as increased remittances.
He advocated for a more attractive, dynamic telecom industry that offers competitive compensation and career advancement opportunities.
The panel warned against cutting back on employee training programs due to fear of talent loss, emphasising that doing so would harm business growth more than help. Nigeria loses billions annually to talent migration, and the TSSF 5.0 forum aimed to foster dialogue on strategies to retain talent and promote sector growth.Convener and managing editor of Business Remarks, Bukola Olanrewaju, expressed concern over the escalating talent depletion, calling it a potential threat to Nigeria’s productivity and economic growth if not properly addressed.
