A senior lecturer at the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), Dr. Vincent Paul, has urged Nigerian graduates to embrace skills acquisition as a viable pathway to overcome the nation’s persistent unemployment crisis. He made the call in Lafia on Wednesday during the inauguration of the university’s National Executive Council of its Alumni Association and the launch of a Trust Fund for Legacy Projects.
Dr. Paul, a vocal advocate of entrepreneurship development, stressed that the time had come for young graduates to shift focus from white-collar job expectations and instead channel their energy into developing practical skills and talents. According to him, many graduates waste precious time waiting for jobs that may never come due to limited opportunities in the formal sector.
He encouraged Nigerian political leaders to consistently organise skill-building programmes for youths, stating that empowering them through entrepreneurship training would not only reduce unemployment but also enhance economic development. “Skills acquisition will help young people become financially independent and contributors to the growth of society,” he said.
Dr. Paul also advised graduates to see skills as long-term investments that can help them establish sustainable businesses. “As a Nigerian graduate, it is very important to learn a skill. This will help you set up your own business and start earning while searching for any job of your choice,” he explained. He cited examples of skilled individuals who have become employers of labour and role models for others.
Addressing the newly inaugurated executives of the NSUK Alumni Association, Dr. Paul urged them to focus on initiatives that would leave lasting impacts on the university community and beyond. He highlighted the importance of legacy projects, financial sustainability, entrepreneurial ventures, and inclusive leadership in achieving the association’s objectives.
He further emphasized the role of the alumni trust fund in building enduring structures that could support the university and its graduates. “To ensure that an association such as ours achieves any tangible goal, a strong financial base is of utmost importance. We are united not just by shared memories, but by a shared obligation to preserve our legacy and empower the next generation,” he concluded.
In his response, the newly elected National President of the NSUK Alumni Association, Mr. Nuhu Egya, expressed gratitude to the alumni community for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to work tirelessly to elevate the association and deliver meaningful programmes that would benefit both alumni and current students of the university.
