With a population of over 223 million people and a growing number of graduates each year, the competition for jobs is intense in Nigeria. Over 80 million are unemployed as stated by NBS making it over 50% of Nigerian youths.
This makes it fundamental for individuals to possess a set of skills that not only match the job requirements but also distinguish them from others.
In this blog post, we will explore the top employability skills in Nigeria and provide tips on how you can acquire and improve them. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced professional looking to upskill, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to enhance your employability in Nigeria’s job market.
Understanding Employability Skills
Employability skills, often interchangeably used with terms like ‘soft skills’, ‘transferable skills’, or ‘job-ready skills’, are a set of abilities that are universally sought by employers across various industries in Nigeria and beyond. These skills go beyond academic qualifications and work experience, focusing more on the understanding of how to apply knowledge in real-world situations, how to interact with others, and how to steer around the professional environment.
These skills are not job-specific but are applicable across all sectors and job roles. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into each of these employability skills, why they are important in the Nigerian job market, and how you can improve them.
Top Employability Skills in Nigeria
In this section, we will explore the top employability skills that are highly sought after in Nigeria’s job market. We will discuss each skill in detail, highlighting its importance and providing practical examples.
Basic literacy and numeracy
These are the skills that allow you to read, write, and perform basic calculations. They are essential for any job that requires communication, documentation, or data analysis. You can improve your basic literacy and numeracy skills by taking courses, reading books, or using online resources.
Communication Skills
Communication skills are dominant in any workplace. They involve both verbal and written communication. In Nigeria, being able to effectively express ideas and information is a key employability skill. Whether it’s writing a report or speaking in a meeting, strong communication skills can set you apart.
Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers in Nigeria. This involves the ability to use logic, creativity, and past experiences to overcome challenges in the workplace. Employees who can identify problems and implement effective solutions are an asset to any organization.
Digital Literacy
These are the skills that enable you to use and understand technology. They include basic computer skills, such as using word processors (like Microsoft Word), spreadsheets (like Microsoft Excel), and presentation software (like Microsoft PowerPoint). You can acquire digital skills by taking classes/courses, joining online communities, or practicing on your own.
Leadership Skills
Leadership skills involve guiding and inspiring others to achieve a common goal. In Nigeria, employers value individuals who can take initiative, make decisions, and motivate others.
Organizational skills
Organizational Skills Organizational skills are tools that allow you to stay focused and efficiently prioritize your responsibilities. They are crucial for any job that requires planning, coordination, or teamwork. You can improve your organizational skills by setting goals, managing your time, and using the right tools.
Time-management skills
Time Management Time management is the skill of using your time wisely and productively. It involves creating a schedule, setting deadlines, and avoiding distractions. In Nigeria, being able to manage your time well is a key employability skill in terms of completing a project or attending a meeting. Good time management skills can help you achieve your objectives.
Job-specific skills
These are the skills that are directly related to the tasks and functions of a particular job. They vary depending on the industry and occupation you want to pursue. For example, if you want to be a nurse, you need to have medical knowledge, clinical skills, and patient care skills. You can learn job-specific skills by enrolling in vocational or technical training programmes, doing internships or apprenticeships, or shadowing professionals.
In the next sections, we will provide tips on how you can acquire and improve these top employability skills in Nigeria.
How to Acquire and Improve These Skills
In the digital age, acquiring and improving employability skills has become more accessible than ever. Here are some ways you can develop the top skills for employability in Nigeria:
- Online Courses and Resources: The internet is a treasure trove of knowledge. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on everything from communication to leadership. Many of these courses are taught by industry professionals and offer certificates upon completion, which can be a great addition to your CV. You can also use NotchHR Learning Management System, which provides a user-friendly and engaging learning journey that gives employees access to free learning courses, quizzes, and more.
- Local Workshops and Seminars: Keep an eye out for workshops and seminars happening in your local area. These events can provide valuable networking opportunities in addition to skill development. Universities, libraries, and community centers often host such events.
- Self-Learning Tips: Self-learning is a powerful tool for personal development. Start by setting clear, achievable goals. Dedicate a specific amount of time each day to learning. Use a variety of resources – books, podcasts, videos, etc. Remember, consistency is the key to self-learning.
Remember, the journey of skill acquisition and improvement is ongoing. As the job market evolves, new skills may emerge as crucial for employability. Stay adaptable and keep learning.
Conclusion
As the Nigerian market is evolving, employability skills are more important than ever. The top skills – communication, problem-solving, digital literacy, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills – are all critical for success. Whether you choose to learn through online courses, local workshops, or self-study, remember that the journey of learning is continuous.
