AfCFTA to help Nigerian outsourcing firms to expand Africa-wide
ABUJA, NIGERIA — Indigenous outsourcing businesses in Nigeria are being urged to expand their operations across Africa, taking advantage of the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Prof. Lere Baale, Chief Executive of Business School, Netherlands International, delivered this strategic advice during a keynote address at the ICS Outsourcing 30th Anniversary Dinner/Award in Lagos.
Baale emphasized the vast potential within the African continent, highlighting its youthful population, abundant natural resources, and emerging markets. He encouraged businesses not to confine themselves to Nigeria alone, stating, “There is no business that you would not find outsourcing, therefore take advantage of the opportunity that AfCFTA has created.”
Unlocking Africa’s economic potential
Baale’s address, themed “Building a Sustainable Future: The Key to Long-Term Growth for African Businesses,” emphasized Africa’s transformative potential.
He suggested that with strategic expansion and sustainable practices, African businesses could harness the continent’s potential to become a global economic powerhouse. He stressed that sustainability is crucial for long-term growth and resilience in the global market.
ICS Outsourcing’s vision for expansion
Peter Akindeju, Managing Director and Chief Executive of ICS Outsourcing, also addressed the event, reflecting on the company’s growth over the past 30 years. Initially established to provide employment opportunities in the banking sector, ICS Outsourcing has evolved into a leading provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) services across various industries.
Akindeju shared the company’s commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and empowering both individuals and businesses.
“Over the past 30 years, this noble idea has grown into the one-stop outsourcing octopus, offering wide and varied BPO services to various sectors of the economy within and outside of Nigeria,” he noted.
Looking ahead, ICS Outsourcing plans to focus on innovation and sustainability while expanding its reach across Africa. Akindeju outlined strategic goals centered on employee development, client satisfaction, and investments in sectors such as healthcare, ICT, and specialized real estate. These efforts align with the broader opportunities presented by AfCFTA, enabling the company to remain competitive and poised for growth in the evolving global economy.
Embracing AfCFTA for future success
Both Baale and Akindeju emphasized the importance of adaptability and strategic expansion.
By embracing the opportunities offered by AfCFTA, indigenous outsourcing businesses can extend their reach beyond Nigeria, ensuring they remain competitive and ready to capitalize on Africa’s promising economic landscape.
