In a passionate call to action, Dr. Maria Abdullahi, a lecturer in the Economics Department at Sokoto State University, has urged Nigerian students to acquire vocational skills as a pathway to self-reliance and career success in today’s challenging economy.
Addressing students of her department, Dr. Abdullahi highlighted the high unemployment rate in Nigeria—currently over 33% according to the National Bureau of Statistics—with youths being the most affected. She stressed that it is time students begin to look beyond the pursuit of white-collar jobs and instead equip themselves with practical, marketable skills that can open doors to multiple opportunities.
“Vocational skills not only provide practical experience and confidence,” she said, “they also give students a sense of purpose and a safety net in a highly competitive job market.”
She explained that with rapid technological changes and the rise of automation, students must remain adaptable, innovative, and proactive. Skills such as coding, digital marketing, and data analysis, she noted, are increasingly in demand and can significantly improve employability.
Dr. Abdullahi also pointed to various government initiatives, including the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and the National Skills Acquisition Programme (NSAP), which provide training and certification in diverse vocational fields. In addition, skill acquisition centres across the country continue to offer opportunities for young Nigerians to develop relevant expertise.
Her message, however, went beyond skill acquisition. She urged students to adopt a mindset of self-reliance and entrepreneurship, reminding them that success in the evolving Nigerian economy depends on initiative and resilience.
“As the world of work changes, the real power lies in adaptability,” she said. “By embracing vocational training, students can unlock their full potential and secure their future.”
Her timely advice reinforces the growing recognition that vocational skills are not just alternatives to formal education but essential complements that prepare students for the realities of the modern job market.