YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIA

youth unemployment in Nigeria

Hers was a sad case, Bola had graduated from the prestigious University of Ibadan with a high flying grade, the most prized first class of excellence. Yet, after several years of graduation and re-enabling herself, she was still unable to secure a good job that understood her worth and gained experience. Sadly, this is the tune played by most graduates in Nigeria. This youth unemployment in Nigeria has introduced a lot of havoc among the young adults. Except a few who possess strong connections and have good luck, or better still favour from the divinity, many are underpaid and struggle to make ends meet. According to Wikipedia, unemployment is a situation in which able-bodied people, who are looking for a job cannot find one and voluntary unemployment is attributed to the individual’s decision whereas, involuntary unemployment exists because of the socioeconomic environment, including the market structure, government intervention and the level of aggregate demand in which individuals operate. As Nigeria’s youth population grows, so does the unemployment rate of youths, the majority of unemployed people being females and rural dwellers. Research studies According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria presently has 43 federal universities, 52 state universities, and 79 private universities. By some estimates, Nigeria’s tertiary education and institutions produce up to 500,000 graduates every year and there are also Nigerians who study abroad who come home to seek jobs. Older Nigerians speak of a past when young graduates had jobs lined up even before they graduated. The plague of unemployment has continued to increase despite the abundant human and natural resources available in the country. Chronic youth unemployment is evident in Nigeria, the streets are littered with youth hawkers who ordinarily should have found gainful employment in some enterprise. The large number of youths who are unemployed is capable of undermining democratic practice as they constitute a serious threat if engaged by the political class in clandestine and criminal activities. Youth unemployment in Nigeria has led to an increase in the crime rate and has resulted in Nigeria’s setbacks and problems. Nigeria remains crippled with a massive unemployment level that continues to exact a considerable toll on its socioeconomic prospects. Causes of Youth Unemployment in Nigeria There are so many causes of youth unemployment in Nigeria, some of which are: Rapid rural-urban migration and an upgraded curriculum. Frustration, dejection, and desperation. Dependency on family members and friends, who have their problems to contend with. This precarious unemployment situation has left the youths in a vicious cycle of poverty that daily erodes their confidence and bright future. The issue of youth unemployment in Nigeria can be salvaged or reduced in the following ways: Encouraging creativity and dexterity as youths acquire different vocational skills thereby, making them job creators rather than job seekers. Vocational and technical education should be vigorously pursued. Provision of soft loans to the trained youths as take-off capital. Rural-urban migration should be checked: This can be achieved through the provision of essential social amenities that will make life in rural areas attractive to the youths. A mismanaged population growth is a recipe for disaster, as it would readily create an army of unemployed people who could turn to crime as a survival strategy. Public enlightenment campaigns on the dangers of population explosion and its adverse effect on national development. These strategies need to be placed in the right sectors to foster the employability of young graduates and develop the nation at large. Conclusion The issue of unemployment is stiffing to any country. Deliberate action through enlightenment, rural-urban migration management, and other strategies need to be put in place to manage the youth unemployment in Nigeria situation.

Marriage: 7 things to consider for a successful marriage

Marriage.things to do

Marriage isn’t just about wearing a ring or having a beautiful wedding. It’s about choosing someone to walk through life with—someone to share your highest highs and toughest lows. It’s a huge decision, and while love is important, it’s not the only thing you need to make it work. Before you say “I do,” it’s worth sitting down and thinking things through. Here are seven real and important things to consider before taking that step. 1. Do We Truly Match—In Ways That Matter? You don’t need to be exactly the same to be a great match. In fact, your differences can make the relationship even richer. But when it comes to the big stuff—values, beliefs, and life goals—it’s crucial to be on the same page. Ask yourself: Do we both want kids? Are we on the same wavelength about money, religion, or how we want to live? For example, if one of you dreams of a quiet life in the countryside and the other wants the hustle of city life forever, that’s something worth discussing early. Shared values make decision-making easier and reduce conflict later on. 2. Can We Really Talk to Each Other? Good communication is the heartbeat of a healthy marriage. It’s not just about talking, but being honest, vulnerable, and respectful even when you’re upset. Do you feel heard when you express your feelings? Does your partner open up, too? If little misunderstandings often turn into big fights, or if either of you struggles to speak openly about feelings, that’s something to work on before tying the knot. Marriage is full of discussions—about finances, family, plans, and emotions—and being able to navigate those conversations kindly is key. 3. How Do We Handle Money? Let’s be honest, money can get messy. Some people are savers, others are spenders. Some are totally fine with debt, while others feel stressed just hearing the word. Before you get married, talk openly about your financial habits, incomes, savings, debts, and future plans. Are you comfortable combining accounts, or do you prefer to keep things separate? Who handles the budgeting? Will you set financial goals together? These conversations might not be romantic, but they are absolutely necessary for peace of mind. 4. Are We Both Emotionally Ready? Marriage isn’t always easy, and it takes emotional maturity to handle its ups and downs. That means being able to admit when you’re wrong, to apologize, to forgive, and to grow. Take a moment to reflect: When things go wrong, do we blame each other or work together? Can we disagree without being disrespectful? If either of you struggles with emotional regulation or carries unresolved baggage from the past, it might be time for some self-work before stepping into marriage. 5. How Do Our Families Fit Into the Picture? Let’s face it: when you marry someone, you’re also joining parts of their family—and they’re joining yours. So it helps to understand where your partner is coming from. What were they taught about relationships? Are there traditions or expectations that matter to them? Also, don’t shy away from talking about your own future family. How many kids do you want? What’s your ideal parenting style? Will both of you work, or will one stay home? These aren’t just “someday” topics—they can affect your relationship in big ways. 6. How Do We Handle Fights? In marriage, no couple is perfect. Disagreements will happen. What matters is how you deal with them. Do you listen to each other, or just wait for your turn to talk? Do fights become personal, or do you work toward a solution? Think about how you and your partner typically resolve issues. If one of you tends to shut down or if conflicts linger unresolved for days, that could build resentment over time. The way you handle disagreements before marriage often predicts how you’ll handle bigger ones later. 7. Are We Headed in the Same Direction? Love is about more than today—it’s also about where you’re going. Sit down and ask: What does the future look like for us? Do we want to travel the world or settle down early? Start a business together or pursue separate careers? Your dreams don’t have to be identical, but they should be compatible. A couple that dreams together, plans together, and builds together has a much stronger chance of lasting happiness. Marriage is one of the most beautiful commitments you can make, but it’s not something to rush into. Take the time to talk, reflect, and really get to know not just your partner, but yourself. These seven areas—compatibility, communication, money, emotional maturity, family dynamics, conflict resolution, and long-term goals—can make all the difference between a marriage that simply survives and one that truly thrives. You don’t have to have all the answers now. But being open, honest, and intentional sets the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect, growth, and lasting love.

Mental Health: 10 Practical Steps to Help You Prioritize Your Mental Health

When Born Again Beliefs Collide With Mental Health Issues

Your mental health encompasses your overall well-being. It cannot be taken out of the equation, and must never be neglected. Practical ways to prioritize your mental health includes: being positive and productive, not living your life based on social media standards, loving and prioritizing yourself.

Family Traditions: The Importance of Christmas Clothes

Christmas Clothes The Importance Of Family Traditions

The Christmas holiday is one family tradition I always look forward to. Apart from the fun and relaxation with friends and family, I always anticipate my Christmas clothes. My parents would always gift my siblings and I new clothes and shoes every Christmas holiday and it became a tradition. This is one age-old tradition has been passed from generation to generation and I will continually uphold and cherish. The cheesy feeling it brings and the love behind giving us those Christmas clothes makes it remarkable. Another family gathering I always look forward to is the cross overnight. Everyone in my family is always present as we share, pray, and plan for the new year. Yours might be different from mine. There are certain traditions your parents have instilled in you that have shaped you. I once had a friend who told me that every year, in honor of their mom’s birthday, they visit the orphanage to donate food items and clothing. In turn, this tradition made her regard the less privileged. Importance of Family Traditions Family traditions carry a special significance for all family members involved. As opposed to family routines which are often basic activities that are necessary to keep the family unit functioning. Family traditions help to make memories for families that last a lifetime. It provides children with a sense of security by providing continuity. It gives family members a strong sense of belonging. It helps pass on family values, including cultural and religious heritage. Conclusion Family traditions are always something to look forward to as they establish a foundation for family values and serve as special bonding experiences.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Stories of 4 Victims of Sexual Assault

Sexual Assault Awareness (1)

Sexual Assault is a silent pandemic in our contemporary society. It involves sexual actions that are carried out without the consent of the other party. It is a crime, and sexual assault affects the victim all around. This, sexual assault awareness must be carried out by you and me. Sexual Assault Awareness involves teaching people how to protect themselves from sexual assault, heal from sexual assault, and educate people to not be perpetrators of sexual assault. Read this article to read about sexual assault, sexual assault awareness, and stories of victims of sexual assault.

A Tale of 3 Women Who Broke Barriers

Birds Who Flew Without Wings A Tale of Three Women Who Broke Barriers

A Tale of 3 women who against all odds broke barriers, Dr. Yvonne, Miss Ara, and Mrs. Ayanfe, didn’t let their past and background define them; read this article to see their stories, how they flew even when it seemed as though their wings had been cut.

Female Genital Mutilation: The Tale of a Victim 1

Female Genital Mutilation Tale of a Victim (1)

Amina’s 10th birthday marked a turning point in her life. Instead of celebrating, she was taken to a village where she was forced to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM). The experience was traumatic, and Amina witnessed the devastating consequences of FGM, including the death of a young girl who underwent the procedure before her.

The Best Love: 8 Ways To Remind You of God’s Love

The Best Love 8 Ways To Remind You of God's Love

Feeling Unloved and Unseen? Here Are Reminders of the Best Love Ever – God’s Love. Love is an emotion characterized by strong feelings of affection for another arising out of kinship, companionship, admiration, or benevolence (Britannica). God is love. The best description of love is found in John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” It’s essential to remember that there’s no better love than the love God has for us. And God has commanded us to love others as He has loved us (John 13:34). In the Bible, we see that God is a loving Father. Here are some reminders of His love: Love Cares: Do you feel uncared for here’s a reminder of God’s love, and how much He cares for us. God cares for us deeply. In Matthew 6:26-30, Jesus says, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?… And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.” Love Provides: The other day, you were in lack and as always, God came through for you in ways you didn’t even expect. Fear not, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will come to your aid today. God provides for His children abundantly. In Matthew 7:9-11, Jesus says, “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Love Sacrifices: There’s no love without sacrifice, and Christ has made the greatest sacrifice ever. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Love Protects: Are you scared of the plans of the enemy? Here’s a reassurance, God protects His children with care. In Psalm 91:11-12, it says, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” Love Comforts: Are you in despair, so you feel depressed, neglected. God is stretching His arms, allow Him into your heart. God comforts His children in times of need. In John 14:16-17, Jesus says, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth.” Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Love Sees: God sees us and knows each and every part of our being. In Genesis 16:13-14, Hagar, who was distressed and in the desert, encountered the angel of the Lord. She realized God was aware of her circumstances and called Him El-roi, meaning “You are the God who sees me… I have now seen the One who sees me.” Love Listens: You need someone to talk to? God listens to our prayers and answers. God knows the voice of His sheep. In Jeremiah 33:3, it says, “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Love Heals: I want you to hold on God no matter how terrible and sad the hospital report says. God is the Great Physician. In Matthew 15:30, it says, “Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them.” Call to Action: Now, take a moment to reflect on the aspects of your life where God’s love is visible and undoubtedly present. Hold on to His faithfulness, and in prayer, ask the Lord to help your heart. Conclusion: As children of God, we’re commanded to love others as He has loved us (John 13:34). Love can be shared through the smallest acts of kindness. A smile, a thoughtful gesture, or a kind word can go a long way. True love goes beyond public displays; it’s about genuinely regarding others with kindness and respect. It’s about being willing to sacrifice for the benefit of others. Love is doing good without expecting anything in return. As Jesus taught, love is forgiving others “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22).   ALSO READ: Religion Creates No Boundaries In Love

The Power of Femininity: Strength, Fashion, Dominion, and Positive Contribution to Society

The power of femininity

Femininity is a force to be reckoned with that transcends looks or expectation. It is strength, elegance, authority, and the ability to build a better world. Women are breaking glass ceilings, taking over industries, and influencing culture today with the poise and beauty that characterize femininity. This article explores the intersection of strength, fashion, dominance, and the revolutionary effect of feminine power on society. Femininity as Strength The belief that femininity is the same as weakness is one that is false and obsolete. Femininity is, in fact, a display of strength in numerous senses—mental, emotional, physical, and social. Women have exhibited strength throughout history, from war heroines such as Joan of Arc to modern leaders such as Malala Yousafzai and Kamala Harris. Femininity finds strength in being able to nurture and support and remain firm in beliefs. Women juggle multiple roles—career professionals, mothers, entrepreneurs, and activists—without diluting their identity. Strength to remain soft and firm is among the finest attributes of femininity. Emotional intelligence, tolerance, and the ability to effect change through empathy render women powerful forces in society. Furthermore, feminine power is about being vulnerable and authentic. It takes courage to be emotional in a world where strength is often associated with emotional numbness. Vulnerable women who make good decisions are the essence of balanced power. Fashion as an Expression of Femininity Fashion is one of the most external expressions of femininity. Fashion is not just apparel; it is a language, a tool of self-expression, and a medium of empowerment. Throughout history, fashion has played a role in the construction of feminine identity and social status. From Victorian-era dresses to today’s power suits for female CEOs, fashion both enshrines beauty and reflects change in society. And now, femininity in fashion is to have an option—dressing in a flowing gown or in a fitted jacket without compromising on identity. Beyond beauty, fashion gives women a voice. Consider the impact of such campaigns as “Dress for Success,” which encourages women to embrace attire that exudes confidence and authority in the workplace. Fashion is also revolution; women have employed it to challenge norms, from Coco Chanel popularizing trousers for women to modern influencers embracing body positivity. Even in casual attire, womanhood shines through colors, texture, and the manner in which garments are worn. Truthfulness is the key to feminine style—dressing as oneself feels right and not based on outside pressures. From a bold lip color, stilettos, to minimalism, fashion is a powerful expression of feminine presence. Dominion: Women in Leadership and Influence Dominion is not dominance but authority to influence, decide, and shape the world. Women globally are redefining leadership and proving that femininity and power coexist. Women are leaving indelible marks in politics, business, technology, and social activism. Women like Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama, and Angela Merkel have proven that feminine leadership is not domination but vision, empathy, and transformation. Women’s ability to lead with grace and wisdom is unique. Unlike the ancient models of leadership based on aggression only, most women leaders bring collaboration, compassion, and creativity. This is evident in the success of women-led organizations that typically prioritize teamwork, oneness, and sustainable development. Even outside of formal leadership positions, women have influence in families, communities, and workplaces. A mother who raises confident children, an artist who uses imagination to challenge conventions, or a teacher who educates future generations—all of these are examples of feminine power in action. Women no longer need permission to exercise sovereignty; they are building the world by being themselves—fearless, intelligent, and resilient. Positive Contribution to Society One of the most wonderful aspects of femininity is how it benefits the greater good. Women have traditionally played crucial roles in society, whether as caregivers, innovators, or activists. In education, women like Malala Yousafzai have fought to get girls educated, in the sense that they bring access to information to the generations that come. In technology and science, innovators like Marie Curie and Ada Lovelace have gone an extra mile so that their achievements benefit humankind. Social activism is also led by women. It was women’s persistence in achieving voting rights, workplace equality, and reproductive rights that fueled the feminist movements. Women still lead such endeavors today for climate protection, human rights movements, and grassroots development efforts. In addition to activism, the day-to-day normal efforts of women build strong societies. The affection and love of mothers, the counseling of working women, and the endurance of women during tough times all create a successful world. Conclusion Femininity is a sophisticated power that brings together strength, style, authority, and a positive social impact. It breaks stereotypes but encompasses resilience, self-expression, leadership, and change. Women are redefining history by simply being themselves boldly, elegantly, and powerfully. The woman of today is a warrior in her own right, changing the world with brains, flair, and compassion. From boardrooms, classrooms, runways, to homes, femininity remains a force for change. To be feminine is to be powerful—one that can change the world for the better. Call to Action Never diminish your essence, if you are a woman — embrace your feminine side and do it with pride. If you are a man, encourage and celebrate the women in your life. So, let us create a world where we value, empower, and express femininity. Also Read: 8 Vital Tips on How to Self-Prioritize