Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has advised members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to embrace entrepreneurship and skills development instead of waiting for scarce white-collar jobs after completing their national service.
The governor gave the advice while addressing corps members during an official engagement, where he emphasized the need for young Nigerians to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to economic development through innovation and enterprise.
According to Eno, the country’s evolving labour market requires graduates to develop practical skills capable of creating employment opportunities rather than depending entirely on government or corporate jobs. He noted that entrepreneurship remains one of the most effective ways to reduce unemployment and stimulate economic growth.
The governor encouraged the corps members to take advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme and other vocational initiatives designed to equip young people with marketable skills. He said acquiring expertise in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, fashion, and other productive sectors could provide sustainable sources of income.
Eno also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through programmes that support small businesses, vocational training, and access to financing for young entrepreneurs. He stated that investing in the youth remains essential to the state’s long-term economic prosperity.
The governor urged corps members to remain disciplined, hardworking, and focused throughout their service year while taking advantage of opportunities to learn, network, and build careers beyond the traditional employment system.
Education and labour experts have echoed similar views, noting that entrepreneurship has become increasingly important in addressing graduate unemployment across Nigeria. They argue that practical skills, innovation, and digital literacy are now critical to succeeding in today’s competitive economy.
