Surging Helpless Unemployment: Find a New Job in 2025

Finding a job is challenging worldwide, but it is tough in Nigeria. While part of the blame lies with students themselves, the bulk of the issue stems from the systemic problems plaguing the country.

University World News says over 600,000 graduates enter the Nigerian labour market annually. Adding these new graduates to the existing pool of unemployed individuals paints a dire picture of the situation.

Unemployment in Nigeria has become a persistent challenge, especially for recent graduates. Let’s explore the factors contributing to this issue and how you can overcome them.

1. Employability

One critical issue is the employability of Nigerian graduates. Among the 600,000 students who graduate each year, only a fraction acquire the skills that make them employable. Most of the skills required to thrive in today’s job market are learned outside formal schooling. This is where self-directed learning and a robust support network come into play, but these are often lacking.

Employers are looking for candidates with technical skills as well as transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. Unfortunately, many graduates leave school without these, putting them at a disadvantage in the competitive job market.

2. Lack of a Support System

In an ideal world, universities should equip students with the tools to secure and succeed in jobs. However, while universities provide the basics, they do not offer a one-size-fits-all solution.

In today’s gig economy, students must take the initiative to learn skills like time management, effective communication, and core domain expertise. Sadly, many graduates lack these essentials, which employers view as critical. Without them, even the most qualified candidates may struggle to find employment.

3. Falling for the Systemised Trap

The academic system in Nigeria is highly standardised, and while it tries to provide students with a solid education, it also creates a significant challenge: homogeneity. Students graduate with the same skills and qualifications, making it difficult to stand out.

Additionally, some students exacerbate the issue by neglecting their own learning. They focus solely on passing exams rather than understanding the material, outsource projects and theses, and miss opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This approach leaves them unprepared for the demands of the workplace.

Employers value productivity and initiative over grades. A candidate with practical skills and a lower grade often outshines one with a first-class degree but no real-world abilities.

4. What Should You Do in 2025 and Beyond?

If you want to stand out and secure a job in today’s competitive market, here are actionable steps you can take:

a. Correct the Errors of the System

You need to take control of your career development. Understand that no one else is responsible for your success; it’s up to you. Learn essential soft skills, such as:

• Time management
• Effective communication
• Organisational productivity hacks
• Understanding workplace dynamics

These skills will help you navigate the complexities of modern workplaces and make you a valuable asset to employers.

b. Avoid Being a Generic Job Seeker

Specialize in a specific domain. While universities provide you with a broad certificate, employers are looking for expertise. For example:

• If you studied Computer Science, do you know how to build a functional web application or manage databases?
• If you studied Economics, can you analyse business accounts or build economic models using tools like MATLAB or Excel?

By specialising, you create two pathways for yourself:

1. Start your own business immediately.
2. Work with others to build something remarkable.

c. Be Detail-Oriented

Many job applicants fail because they don’t pay attention to details. Research shows that most applicants do not fully understand the job descriptions or requirements before applying. This lack of diligence sends a strong signal to employers that you are not fit for the role.

Next time you apply for a job, thoroughly read and understand the requirements. Only apply if the role aligns with your skills and expertise.

Final Thoughts

Finding a job in Nigeria may be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By focusing on employability, taking responsibility for your learning, and developing a specialization, you can increase your chances of standing out in a crowded job market. Remember, success requires effort, persistence, and a willingness to learn continuously. Take charge of your future today!