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CR-MEDA, NATEP sign deal to export Cross River talent

CR-MEDA, NATEP sign deal to export Cross River talent

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By Onwa Ekor

 

 

The Cross River Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency, CR-MEDA, has partnered with the National Talent Export Program, NATEP, to create international market pathways for talents from the state in the creative and technology sectors.

The agreement was reached during a strategic meeting at NATEP headquarters in Abuja this week.

Both agencies said the goal is to align the state policies with Nigeria’s service export strategy, unlock funding and connect local talents directly to global employers.

Under the partnership, Cross River will participate in two flagship NATEP programs.

The first is CANEX, the Creative Africa Nexus festival, scheduled for November 2026. The event showcases film, fashion, food, music and the arts.

The second is the Hire from Nigeria Campaign, a national initiative that links Nigerian tech and creative professionals with international and domestic employers.

CR-MEDA Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Great Ogban, attended the meeting with Technical Assistant, Mr. Ekuri Ekuri.

Representing NATEP were Olajumoke Dan-Okayi, Senior Special Assistant on Strategic Communications; Nwando Ajene, Special Assistant on Strategy; and Usman Maaruf Yakubu, Programmes Lead.

Both sides said they will leverage the platforms to showcase Cross River talent, expand market access and grow the state’s economy through service exports.

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