In a thought-provoking address, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has taken a bold stance on the career paths of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, advocating for a shift away from the traditional pursuit of white-collar jobs. This call to action, delivered at the 2026 NYSC Corps Employers' Workshop, is not just a mere suggestion but a strategic move to empower young Nigerians and address the pressing issue of unemployment.
Eno's perspective is particularly intriguing, as he emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship in fostering financial independence and self-reliance among graduates. In his words, 'Today, being an employer of labour, an entrepreneur pays better than a white-collar job.' This statement is a powerful reminder that the traditional path to success is not the only viable option, and it sparks an important conversation about the future of work in Nigeria.
The governor's emphasis on the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program is a strategic move to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. Nigeria's growing population and limited resources make self-employment a necessity, and Eno's call to action is a timely reminder of this reality. It is a call to embrace innovation and create opportunities within the country.
However, this perspective is not without its challenges. The transition from a job-seeker to an employer is not an easy one, and it requires a supportive environment. This is where the role of employers and stakeholders becomes crucial. The NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, rightly emphasizes the importance of providing corps members with supportive work environments, quality mentorship, and adequate welfare. This is not just a matter of corporate social responsibility but a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria.
The SAED program, introduced to equip corps members with vocational and business skills, is a step in the right direction. It is a recognition that the traditional education system may not adequately prepare young people for the challenges of the modern economy. By encouraging self-employment, the NYSC is not just addressing the issue of unemployment but also empowering young people to take control of their destinies.
In my opinion, Eno's call to action is a wake-up call for young Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship and create their own opportunities. It is a call to challenge the status quo and create a new narrative for the future of work in Nigeria. The SAED program is a step in the right direction, but it is just the beginning. The government, employers, and stakeholders must work together to create an environment that supports and encourages entrepreneurship.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a paradigm shift in the way young Nigerians approach their careers. The traditional path to success is not the only viable option, and it is time to explore new avenues. The SAED program is a step in the right direction, but it is up to the young people of Nigeria to take the lead and create a new future for themselves and the country.
