Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has advised members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to shift their focus from the search for white-collar jobs and instead embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-employment as pathways to long-term success.
The governor gave the advice while addressing corps members, stressing that Nigeria's evolving economy presents more opportunities for young people who are willing to build businesses, acquire practical skills, and create value rather than depend solely on government or corporate employment.
According to Governor Eno, the demand for traditional white-collar jobs continues to fall short of the growing number of graduates entering the labour market each year. He noted that entrepreneurship offers young Nigerians the opportunity not only to earn a living but also to create employment opportunities for others.
He encouraged the corps members to take advantage of the NYSC year to develop vocational, technical, and digital skills that can help them establish sustainable businesses after completing their national service.
The governor also urged the youths to maintain a positive mindset, remain resilient, and view challenges as opportunities to innovate. He said the future belongs to individuals who are prepared to identify problems within their communities and provide practical solutions through enterprise.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration's commitment to youth empowerment, explaining that the Akwa Ibom State Government will continue to support initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, agriculture, technology, and small business development.
He observed that entrepreneurship has become a major driver of economic growth globally, with many successful businesses starting from simple ideas backed by determination, creativity, and consistency.
The governor further encouraged the corps members to participate actively in skills acquisition programmes available during their service year, including those organised under the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative.
He noted that the programme provides participants with practical training in various trades and business management, helping them become self-reliant after service.
His remarks come at a time when youth unemployment remains a major economic challenge in Nigeria, prompting governments, development organisations, and private sector stakeholders to intensify investments in entrepreneurship and vocational training as sustainable solutions.
Many education and economic experts have echoed similar views, arguing that developing entrepreneurial skills alongside academic qualifications can improve graduates' employability and strengthen the country's small business ecosystem.
Governor Eno concluded by urging corps members to become job creators rather than job seekers, emphasizing that innovation, hard work, and continuous learning are essential ingredients for success in today's competitive economy.
His message reinforces growing calls for Nigerian youths to diversify their career aspirations, embrace enterprise, and contribute to national development through innovation and self-employment.