In Nigeria, unemployment is something almost everybody has talked about at one point or another. It is no longer a distant issue you only hear on the news. It is inside homes, among friends, within families. Almost every graduate knows someone still searching for work months or even years after school.
When I was younger, I used to think once you finish school and get your certificate, the next step was simple: get a job. That was the normal picture many of us were given. Study hard, graduate, find work, settle down.
But reality has a way of changing that picture quickly.
After school, many people begin to face a different kind of confusion. You have the degree, but the opportunities are limited. And even when opportunities show up, the competition is high. Sometimes thousands applying for one position. It can be discouraging.
But I’ve come to realize that the issue is deeper than just saying “there are no jobs.”
Part of the challenge is how education and practical skills often don’t align. Many people leave school with knowledge, yes, but not always with skills the market is currently demanding. The world is changing faster than many systems are adapting.
My father used to say, “Education opens your eyes, but skill puts food on the table.” At first, I didn’t fully understand it. Now it makes more sense.
Another issue is dependency on traditional expectations. Many people are still raised to believe success only comes through certain paths, mostly formal employment. So when those paths become crowded or limited, frustration increases.
Of course, the economy also plays a huge role. Businesses struggle, inflation rises, companies reduce hiring or shut down completely. These are realities people can’t ignore.
But I also think mindset matters. Not in a blameful way, because the environment is genuinely difficult. Still, adaptability has become more important than ever. Learning new skills, exploring digital opportunities, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and creative problem-solving are becoming necessary.
My mother always believed in resourcefulness. She would say, “Use what you have before complaining about what you don’t have.” That mindset is useful now more than ever.
This does not mean every unemployed person is lazy or not trying. Far from it. Many are trying very hard.
But I think unemployment in Nigeria is a mix of system problems, economic pressure, outdated expectations, and skill gaps.
It is frustrating, yes. But I believe adaptation is becoming part of survival.
The world is changing, and many Nigerians are slowly learning that waiting alone may no longer be enough. Sometimes, you have to create your own direction while still hoping for better systems ahead.
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