Why Getting a Job After Graduation Feels Like Climbing a Mountain Now
It’s no news that the Nigerian job market, especially here in Ibadan, has become extremely competitive. Every graduating student dreams of getting a good job right after school, but reality usually hits hard—many end up with months or even years of unemployment or underemployment. The question is: how can young graduates realistically improve their chances in this difficult environment? What does it really take to be employable beyond having a certificate?
Understanding the Challenges
Let’s be real. The challenges graduates face today include:
- Lack of relevant experience: Most fresh grads have theory but little or no practical exposure.
- Oversaturated job market: Thousands graduate yearly in fields like Business, Computer Science, Mass Communication, making competition stiff.
- Skills mismatch: Employers want specific skills, often digital or soft skills, that many graduates don’t have.
- Networking gaps: Many graduates don’t use connections or informal job markets effectively.
- Economic realities: Companies are shrinking staff or hiring fewer people to cut costs.
Practical Steps for Graduates in Ibadan to Become More Employable
1. Focus on Skills, Not Just Certificates
Certificates alone won’t take you far. Identify the skills employers demand in your field and sharpen them—be it digital marketing tools, accounting software, coding languages, or communication skills.
For example, if you studied Mass Communication, learning basic video editing or social media management tools can differentiate you from others. If you’re a Business graduate, mastering Excel and data analysis tools can give you an edge.
2. Use NYSC Year to Build Real Experience
Don’t see NYSC as just a mandatory government exercise. This is your golden chance to intern, volunteer, or even freelance within your service year. Network actively, take on additional responsibilities, and document your achievements. Employers want proof you can deliver, not just pass exams.
3. Intern Outside Your Comfort Zone
Internships aren’t just for those who study specific courses. If the company you want to work for offers internships, snap them up even if the role isn’t perfect. For instance, if you want to be an engineer but get a chance at a logistics firm’s admin office internship, use it to learn office dynamics, work ethics, and build contacts.
4. Build a Digital Presence
In Ibadan and beyond, recruiters increasingly check candidates online. Have a professional LinkedIn profile, showcase side projects, and even small freelance jobs you’ve done. If you’re able, create content related to your field—blogs, videos, or portfolio websites. This little effort can make a big impression.
5. Learn Networking the Nigerian Way
Networking is not just LinkedIn connections but meaningful relationships. Attend industry seminars, seminars organized by the University of Ibadan, and even small community meetups. Don’t be shy about asking for guidance or recommendations from alumni or family friends.
6. Volunteer and Freelance
Consider volunteering for NGOs, startups, or community projects. Freelancing sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and local platforms can also provide income and experience. These roles help you keep busy, build your CV, and gain references.
7. Work on Soft Skills
Employers in Nigeria value traits like punctuality, team spirit, problem-solving, and good communication. Sometimes these tip the scale when certificates look similar. Practice these skills early by taking leadership roles in community groups, clubs, or NYSC camps.
Realistic Scenario: Meet Tunde, an Ibadan Graduate
Tunde graduated with a degree in Computer Science in 2025. He didn’t get a full-time job immediately but joined a small tech club at the University of Ibadan where he learned coding beyond his syllabus. During NYSC, he volunteered for a startup company handling social media and website updates, even though he was officially posted to a government agency.
After his service year, Tunde quickly secured a job as a junior developer because he showed real projects and a passion to learn. He kept building his network by attending tech talks at the Oja Oba center and contributed to open-source projects online. His secret? Being proactive and not limiting himself to what his degree said.
Final Thoughts
Employability today requires adaptability, continuous self-improvement, and smart use of opportunities like NYSC. Graduates in Ibadan must think beyond their certificates, embrace practical skills, and engage with the wider job ecosystem. The road is tough, no doubt, but with strategy and persistence, it is possible to stand out.
So I ask everyone here:
- What practical steps have you taken or seen others take that helped break the employment barrier?
- How can Nigerian educational institutions better prepare graduates for real-world demands?
- Do you think the NYSC scheme is still relevant, and how can it be improved to boost employability directly?