One of my friends from our service days was chatting with me last night, and I asked about his family and job. He said he hasn't gotten a job since graduating, and despite sending out applications, no one calls him for interviews. There's a severe lack of jobs in the country. I tried to advise him to stay positive, hoping that a job will come.
Unemployment is one of the greatest challenges facing Nigerian youth, including myself. It's disheartening to see someone graduate and still be jobless years later. Joblessness leads to brokenness, which can result in depression and other problems. Not having money is a significant stress.
The worst part is that parents expect something from you after graduation, believing you're now an adult who can cater for yourself. However, there's no more financial support from them like school days; instead, they expect you to support yourself and possibly contribute to the family.
The struggle to find a job after graduation in Nigeria is real. Many graduates, including those with degrees in engineering or mass communication, end up doing menial jobs like operating a POS machine under an umbrella or in a container. Some go on to learn a trade or skill after graduating because they can't find white-collar jobs. I also learn baking which I am doing presently.It seems that only those with connections get jobs.
I recall my brother's experience when he was a fresh graduate with no job. He was tired, frustrated, and depressed. Thankfully, my mom was there to encourage him. He eventually took a low-paying job just to leave the house and later found a better opportunity.
If I were privileged to become the President of Nigeria, tackling unemployment would be my top priority. Employing 95% of the youth would significantly reduce crime rates in the country. Even if I couldn't employ everyone, I would ensure that the unemployed receive a certain percentage of financial support or salary every month, which they could use to start a business.
Another issue I'd tackle is insecurity. Kidnapping has become rampant, and people are scared to travel or even stay at home. In one area of my town, people have started relocating due to repeated kidnappings and huge ransoms demanded. It's heartbreaking to see house owners who can't take their homes with them and are forced to rent house elsewhere despite having a house of their own.
As President, I'd ensure tight security and root out corrupt officers within the force. Those who accept bribes from kidnappers instead of arresting them are part of the problem. I've seen cases where kidnappers are caught and handed over to the police, only to be released. Sometimes I wish I have a power and could take matters into my own hands and deal with these issues personally.
The struggles of unemployment and insecurity in Nigeria are pressing issues that require urgent attention. As a nation, there is need to work together to create opportunities for our youth and ensure their safety and well-being. If I were President, I would prioritize these issues and work tirelessly to provide solutions. Until then, I hope our president do better in providing jobs and tackle insecurity.
In response to hive-naija weekly prompt.