Dr Vincent Paul, a senior lecturer at the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, has advised unemployed graduates across the country to focus on learning practical skills that can help them overcome the growing unemployment crisis in Nigeria.
Dr. Paul gave this advice on Wednesday in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, during the inauguration of the National Executive Council of the university’s Alumni Association and the launch of its Trust Fund for Legacy Projects.
He stressed that the current job market is not favourable, and many white-collar jobs may never become available. Instead of waiting endlessly for office jobs, he encouraged graduates to develop practical skills and use them to improve their livelihoods.
“Having a skill today is very important. It allows you to start your own business and earn money while you continue your job search. Many people have become business owners through skills they acquired, and I encourage young people to take this seriously,” Dr. Paul said.
He also called on government and political leaders to support young people by organising frequent skill acquisition programmes. According to him, such initiatives will make Nigerian youths more self-reliant, financially stable, and able to contribute meaningfully to society.
Dr. Paul further advised the newly inaugurated alumni executives to use the association’s Trust Fund to support legacy projects and promote entrepreneurship, financial sustainability, and strong leadership systems. He added that alumni associations need a solid financial base to succeed and should focus on building a legacy that empowers future generations.
“We are not just united by memories from our university days,” he said, “we are also responsible for shaping the future by supporting others and building sustainable systems.”
The newly inaugurated National President of the NSUK Alumni Association, Mr. Nuhu Egya, expressed his gratitude to the members and university community for trusting him with the position. He promised to work hard and lead the association to greater achievements.
As Nigeria continues to struggle with unemployment, Dr. Paul’s message is clear: rather than waiting for uncertain job offers, graduates should take their futures into their own hands by learning skills and creating opportunities for themselves.
