There has been a call to introduce entrepreneurship trianing into Nigerian Universities, the reason being that the rate of unemployed graduates in Nigeria is alarming. Nigerian graduates need to be well trained and educated as regards entrepreneurial skills, most graduates cant even write a business proposal, or even manage a small scale business. lt is evident because we have a lot of graduates who are still dependent on their parents, this is very sadening, although the Nigerian factor is also involved, however the youth of this nation need to begin to see the reason for establishing their own private business.
From the university days, the youth can harness their potential in the area of entrepreneuship and this in the long run will benefit them and in turn will increase the National Income of the Nation. With this mindset, soon we would begin to have initiatives for the production of new products and of course services. It would be something of great achievement if we the youth can spring up industries, float companies, thereby reducing the level of importation into the country, this is the road to development as a result of an increase in GDP of the nation, but it starts with you and i; the youth of this nation.
N.B; There is a programme run by Abuja Enterprise Agency(AEA) for youth corpers, it is called NYSC ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME.
Showing posts with label Proudly Nigerian. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Proudly Nigerian. Show all posts
Nigerian youth and the election
The forth coming election brings different feelings and questions
to peoples mind; can we depend on INEC?, will it be free and fair?,
or dictated by PDP?, will it be
non-violent?, what new changes will occur?.
These and much more are the questions on peoples mind, some people
have made up their minds not to register talkless of voting, afterall
we do so all the time and eventually we get a government of the people(high class)
for the people(masses) by the people(high class).
The youth constitute up to 70 percent of the entire population, that indeed is
a very high number, that is to say with such number we can influence things to
a certain level. Starting with the utilization of youth corpers for the entire exercise.
I want to believe that we have a say, but thats if we decide to use the power we have,
all youths should endeavour to register and eventually vote, that change we want so badly
starts from now.
i have this question on my mind, how do most people decide on who to vote for?
do we consider their looks; how executive they look in their campaign posters?, or by their words?,
of course we know that in Nigerian politics "Talk is cheap" or by the material gifts we have
been given e.g money, food items etc.or by their past services?
No youth should vote for any politician who tries to buy them with gifts, also those who
want a return, when in actual fact did nothing in the past four years. Remember what Nigeria
lacks and need now are not just mere politicians but good leaders who have vision of what
they intend to do, a leader that has an agenda and systematic ways of achieving it.
At least one state i am not scared for is lagos, if Fashola comes in the second time,
we can all be sure to see more dividends of democracy.
To all the youths; vote wisely, vote for your future.
to peoples mind; can we depend on INEC?, will it be free and fair?,
or dictated by PDP?, will it be
non-violent?, what new changes will occur?.
These and much more are the questions on peoples mind, some people
have made up their minds not to register talkless of voting, afterall
we do so all the time and eventually we get a government of the people(high class)
for the people(masses) by the people(high class).
The youth constitute up to 70 percent of the entire population, that indeed is
a very high number, that is to say with such number we can influence things to
a certain level. Starting with the utilization of youth corpers for the entire exercise.
I want to believe that we have a say, but thats if we decide to use the power we have,
all youths should endeavour to register and eventually vote, that change we want so badly
starts from now.
i have this question on my mind, how do most people decide on who to vote for?
do we consider their looks; how executive they look in their campaign posters?, or by their words?,
of course we know that in Nigerian politics "Talk is cheap" or by the material gifts we have
been given e.g money, food items etc.or by their past services?
No youth should vote for any politician who tries to buy them with gifts, also those who
want a return, when in actual fact did nothing in the past four years. Remember what Nigeria
lacks and need now are not just mere politicians but good leaders who have vision of what
they intend to do, a leader that has an agenda and systematic ways of achieving it.
At least one state i am not scared for is lagos, if Fashola comes in the second time,
we can all be sure to see more dividends of democracy.
To all the youths; vote wisely, vote for your future.
Nigeria ministry of youth development 2
You will agree with me that after going through all the vision and mission statement of this very recent ministry, it is indeed a wonderful one, but On the contrary, if you visit the reverse is the case, although they just moved into a new building, one will find most offices closed, either these officers or officials have gone on vacation (the normal Nigeria factor).
Another problem i have with this ministry is that, youths are not actually been used for anything except for the corp members despatched by NYSC whom you see carrying file from one office to the other, other than that what you see majorly are older people who can't be regarded as youths.i wonder how a ministry based on youth dosent have a quota for these youth to work in such ministry.
Also if the youths are included,(not just to carry files or type documents) but in helping in assesing and creating policies that will really benefit the Nigerian youth. The youth cover up 70 percent of the entire Nigerian population, therefore there is more to be done than it is actually been done.
It is high time a place is given to the youths of Nigeria in the entire system and this ministry should be able to make that possible. Nigerian youth are hungry for change, we want to be heard.
Another problem i have with this ministry is that, youths are not actually been used for anything except for the corp members despatched by NYSC whom you see carrying file from one office to the other, other than that what you see majorly are older people who can't be regarded as youths.i wonder how a ministry based on youth dosent have a quota for these youth to work in such ministry.
Also if the youths are included,(not just to carry files or type documents) but in helping in assesing and creating policies that will really benefit the Nigerian youth. The youth cover up 70 percent of the entire Nigerian population, therefore there is more to be done than it is actually been done.
It is high time a place is given to the youths of Nigeria in the entire system and this ministry should be able to make that possible. Nigerian youth are hungry for change, we want to be heard.
JOBS FOR NIGERIAN GRADUATES
Are you a Nigerian and a graduate and you have been searching for jobs, am on a search hunt of Nigerian websites that gives you a lot of opportunities, they open you up to companies seeking for employment, you never can tell, this might be the end of all your searches, give it a try, you have nothing to loose, all you have to do is register with them, i am not being given a kobo for doing this, this just my own way of giving vital information to the Nigerian youth and my audience. These sites have a long list of companies in Nigeria and they update you with vital information, they even go as far as telling you about how to get prepared for job interviews and so on. Below are the sites available for now, stay in tune for more of these sites
http://www.nigeriagraduatejobs.com
http://www.2nigeria.com/
http://www.confabee.com/confabee/jobs-nigeria/
http://www.nigerianbestforum.com
http://www.jobsearchnigeria.com/
http://ng.tiptopjob.com/
http://www.jobs-in-nigeria.net/
http://ngcareers.com/
http://www.nigeriajobcentre.com/general/
http://www.careernigerians.com/
NIGERIAN YOUTH CAN NOW SHOP ONLINE
On line shopping has been made easy for nigerians, especially the youths who have been finding ways of purchasing things on line. I stumbled on this site while on naira land, its actually an innovation by our own fellow Nigerian, you can now buy anything on ebay and have it brought to you by our own trusted Nigerian. In their own very words; WE WILL SHOP FOR CLOTHES, SHOES, COMPUTERS, HOUSEHOLD EQUIPMENT, DIGITAL CAMERAS, BOOKS, CDS, MOTORBIKE GEAR, VIDEO GAMES E.T.C. FROM UK AND US ONLINE STORES AND DELIVER TO YOU ANYWHERE!!!. You can check out their web site for testimonials of people who have been patronizing them, to go their site, click on the title of this post.
NIGERIAN YOUTH GET READY
I believe so much in Nigeria, everything going on right now is a phase and very soon, we would get to the height we are hoping for, this call goes out to all patriotic Nigerians not to loose hope in our dear nation, we might be corrupt, we might be notorious, there seem to be so much chaos in the land, but all these cannot stop the emerging force of people like you and me that would create the CHANGE our dear nation Nigeria as been waiting for.
I see the rays of hope gradually coming to light, i see the emergence of young men and women who will stop at nothing until Nigeria as become the place, land and home of our dreams, Nigeria as potentials we cannot doubt that, the home of great minds. Its no more a dream, its already a reality, we have gotten to a place where no one can stop us anymore. A great wind of change is sweeping through the nation, Nigerian youth get ready, equip yourself, empower yourself, there is a place for everyone as we embark on the task of lighting up our nation.
I see the rays of hope gradually coming to light, i see the emergence of young men and women who will stop at nothing until Nigeria as become the place, land and home of our dreams, Nigeria as potentials we cannot doubt that, the home of great minds. Its no more a dream, its already a reality, we have gotten to a place where no one can stop us anymore. A great wind of change is sweeping through the nation, Nigerian youth get ready, equip yourself, empower yourself, there is a place for everyone as we embark on the task of lighting up our nation.
NIGERIAN YOUTH AND RESOURSE SHARING NETWORK
I stumbled on RSN on nairaland.com, and i was immediately interested because it concerned the youth, i visited their blog(resoursenetworksharing.blogspot.com) and their site, but its their vision am in love with.
R S N is a vision to mentor secondary school student in other to perform better in school, they even go as far as giving coachings to thses students,RsN offers a unique mentoring leadership development program which pairs the disadvantaged youths with matured and responsible Graduates, Corps members, and other young professionals who are experienced and successful in their chosen field of study. The added care, personal attention and encouragement which the students receive from their Mentors, would help them realize their potential and take responsibility for their own lives
Resource Sharing Network (RsN) is a not-for-profit, Youth-Led organization which is set out to improve the academic performance of students in Secondary Schools, and to restore conscientiousness to school work and activities amongst young people. The program provides a platform for learning through our mentoring scheme, Coaching Classes, Career Talks, Leadership Programs, Ethics, etc. RSN is affiliated to A Ray of Hope, UNESCO Youth Ambassador for the Culture of Peace.
We are a group of committed young people who are passionate for a change in the educational system of our nation, Nigeria.
There are two arms of Resource Sharing Network, these are:
Youths Mentoring Youths: This involves tutoring and Mentoring of young people in Senior Secondary Schools.
Save-A-Soul Scheme: It involves voluntary donation of gift items, school materials etc to Special Schools for physically challenged youths.
for more information click on the title of the post to visit their site.
Nigerian Youth can you think?
Every time i see a new day, i count it a previledge to impart something great into people, and i still cant help but talk about this TOPIC once again of the EFFECTS OF THINKING, not just thinking but thinking right, as i surf the web everyday, i can see that Nigerians are eventually waking up, but still most of what we do is an imitation of what other countries have done, am not saying this is wrong, all am saying is, we too can think of an idea that the WORLD would have to pay for, do u believe this?. Its okay to start with imitation, but we cannot afford to stay there, i am particularly talking to the NIGERIAN YOUTH, let us begin to think right, believe me good ideas dont only belong to only white skinned men, it comes to those who can make their minds available, let us begin to think, and tap into the unlimited potentials inside of us, i strongly believe there is a book unwritten inside of you, there is an invention unmade inside of you, there is an idea that the world needs inside of you, all you have to do is launch it out.
Nigerian Youth can you think? i absolutely believe you can, wake up its a new day and start thinking of what you can do for your country and the world at large.START THINKING
Nigerian Youth can you think? i absolutely believe you can, wake up its a new day and start thinking of what you can do for your country and the world at large.START THINKING
Nigerian youth and JAMB
Nigerian youth have suffered enough ordeal in the hands of our almighty JOINT ADMISSION AND MATRICULATION BOARD (JAMB).Looks like that is the most dreaded name in the country, the issue of JAMB as made alot of people loose hope of going to an higher institution, it has forced some to leave the country, it has made some opt for the private institution, while some have had to go for pre-degree, diploma, IJMB, sandwitch programms as a means of entering the higher institution. This has brought about so many questions to the minds of Nigerians, alot of people read extra-ordinarily for this exam, yet they fail it, while some dont even read well and they get good marks, JAMB as been described as an examination of luck, is that how its suppose to be?
There has been alot of questions in the minds of people, especially the question'IS JAMB A TRUE TEST OF KNOWLEDGE?', since it has become an examination of luck student would rather pray than read for it. There has been alot of uproars in the past about the crimes of examination mal practices involved with the exam, issues of special center's and special candidates where the height of this crimes go on. Due to this universities in Nigeria started the POST-JAMB screening arrangement, and such comments like people who even passed the JAMB exam cant answer simple questions, so my question is what in the world are we doing?
Attimes i feel the failure of JAMB is political, what do i mean? we dont even have enough universities for all applied student who write the JAMB exam, so why wont we have mass failure, because even if these student pass, will the universities be able to take in all this people?
To be continued..........................
Nigerian youth need to start thinking
I have noticed that most of us need a push before we can do anything, we want someone to tell us what to do and how to do it at all times, we must understand that in as much as that its good for people to lead us, we need to move at a certain point in our life, we need to rise up to the occassion. Thats why you are called a youth, if you spend quality time thinking about the right things, at the end of the day, you discover that you come out with good and quality ideas, and as the chinese saying goes in english "GOOD THINKING, GOOD PRODUCT".
What you produce, is what you have been thinking about, when you think of negative things, that is what you will eventually start producing, if you think of positive things, thats what you will produce. I discovered that the youth in other developed nations are the ones making things happen, the youth of any country can determine in the long run what that country will become, in china for instance, the youths produce most of those things that are imported to nigeria, is it not so sad that as small as a sharpener or eraser can be we still want to import it, let us start thinking, we can make things happen if only we are ready to start thinking.
Red Strat and Nigeria Youth
This is an organisation that concentrates on the Nigerian youth and focus is on their way of life, but most importantly, they identify the achievements of youths in the country, i went through their website just yesterday, looked up the nominees of the last award, i was surprised that we had such inteligent people in our nation, the truth of the matter is, the world is filled with challenges, but despite that we have people that have dammned these obstacles and found their way to the top, people just like you and me, young, energetic, inspiring youths and Red Strat has made it its job to seek out these ones. This is what RED STRAT has to say;
RedSTRAT
Organiser of The Future.. Awards, RedSTRAT is a strategic communications company, primarily targeted at the young - and the young at heart, as well as a youth resource agency. Through a keen and consistently correct understanding of young people, their needs, their wants, their current raves and craves it is able to connect with them effectively.
Click the title of this page to go to their site and get more information.
RedSTRAT
Organiser of The Future.. Awards, RedSTRAT is a strategic communications company, primarily targeted at the young - and the young at heart, as well as a youth resource agency. Through a keen and consistently correct understanding of young people, their needs, their wants, their current raves and craves it is able to connect with them effectively.
Click the title of this page to go to their site and get more information.
ONE NIGERIA
There is something very crucial i want us to think about, and thats about the nationality of Nigeria, do we actually believe in one Nigeria, despite the different language, different traditions, different culture, do we believe we can live together in love and peace, in unity, in bond, can Nigeria survive as one, can all the ethnics in the country of Nigeria remain together, or do you believe that, the Biafra should go on its own, the naija-delta, the youruba's, the hausa's, should all be seperated?i dont know what you actually think about this. This is a great concern for Nigeria and Nigerians, do we think the name Nigeria can still bind all of us together, this is something we cant continue to shy away from, we need to be objective, and proffer a solution to this issue. If we the youth of Nigeria can all agree on one thing, then we can at least know we would have one voice, this would go a long way in strengthening our nation. On my part i think its worth it, we need to remain together as we have always been. I ask let all of us have this mindset, WITH THIS MINDSET WE CAN ACHIEVE ALL THAT WE WANT.
Fela Durotoye
Have you heard of that name, if not i would wonder if you are a Nigerian, i guess the youths would know him more,Fela Durotoye, a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU), is a com puter scientist and an economist by training, with financial and management consulting experience with Ventures and Trusts Limited. He has a master's degree in Business Administration and also M. Phil in Strategic Management. this is someone we can consider as a role model for the Nigerian youth, he has plans, he educates, he inspires. Personally i consider him my role model, am also an ambassador of his initiation; GEMSTONE. if you would like to know more about this rare gem, then i suggest you click on the title of this post, to get first hand information about him, he is someone you should meet, see you there.
Admission crisis into Nigerian Universities
Just stumbled on a write up while browsing the internet, feel i should let you all see it, still on the issue of academic problems and issues facing the Nigeria youth.
The authors critically examined the problems of admission into Nigeria Universities; and expressed the view that about seventy percent of Nigerians are not aware of the essence of the present system of education, which is geared towards producing individuals with adequate knowledge and skills needed for self-reliance or employment on graduation from secondary school. Consequently, most parents and students still lust for the academic type or university education, hence the serious problem of admission into Nigeria Universities.
ADMISSION CRISES INTO NIGERIA UNIVERSITIES
Certain factors militate against thousands of qualified Nigerians getting admission into Nigerian Universities. These factors include:
shortage of adequate manpower;
federal government policy on admission and the effect of catchments area and quota system
Inadequate Number of Universities in Nigeria
Lack of Adequate Facilities
Lack of Awareness of the Essence of the Educational System.
etc if you want to see the full details of this write up, click the heading of this post at the top.
The authors critically examined the problems of admission into Nigeria Universities; and expressed the view that about seventy percent of Nigerians are not aware of the essence of the present system of education, which is geared towards producing individuals with adequate knowledge and skills needed for self-reliance or employment on graduation from secondary school. Consequently, most parents and students still lust for the academic type or university education, hence the serious problem of admission into Nigeria Universities.
ADMISSION CRISES INTO NIGERIA UNIVERSITIES
Certain factors militate against thousands of qualified Nigerians getting admission into Nigerian Universities. These factors include:
shortage of adequate manpower;
federal government policy on admission and the effect of catchments area and quota system
Inadequate Number of Universities in Nigeria
Lack of Adequate Facilities
Lack of Awareness of the Essence of the Educational System.
etc if you want to see the full details of this write up, click the heading of this post at the top.
Reuben Abati and Nigerian Entertainers
The tabloid in the guardian news paper that brought up so much dust is really amazing to me, its not the first time there would be such criticism, but how come this has raised up so much dust, well someone like rugged man got his fame through this kind of criticism, but why is this so different, well from my opinion, the man is partially right, its only the gravity at which he spoke about those things i worry about, he mentioned a lot of names, wrote their lyrics, i must comment the man, he is current but yet he still has an oldskool mentality, because i don't personally understand his problem with funkynyzn of the name Nigeria, i don't see how that shows dis respect, anyway, the man has made a lot of point, especially the fact that we get to hear more of beat than good lyrics these days, that is the truth, so i dont think we should just criticize the man without putting into consideration the truth in all he has said, i dont think its right for us to just judge, he is not saying he is not proud of us, he is simply saying we can do better, i think that should be taken as an elderly advice, in my own opinion, Banky w was too rash in answering back, its not a clash for stars.
Our Nigerian musicians are really doing well, but i think they can do better,i think this what he is trying to say, although am not in favour with the comparisons he made. Lets look inward and look deep into what he has said, some truthful, some biased, but then lets pick the good and make good use of it.
Our Nigerian musicians are really doing well, but i think they can do better,i think this what he is trying to say, although am not in favour with the comparisons he made. Lets look inward and look deep into what he has said, some truthful, some biased, but then lets pick the good and make good use of it.
Questions for Nigerian youth
Questions for Nigerian youth
A lot of questions run through my mind everyday, and they have become a burden to my heart;
Why cant we make something relevant in the technology sector (e.g invention)?
why are we still struggling with power generation(PHCH)?
why is there a high rate of unemployment?
why are our politicians so corrupt?
why do we all prefer to leave our country(at least a high percentage)?
why cant we have enough universities?
why do we prefer to do scam(419)than other legitimate business?
why cant we have our own refineries?,
To be continued.....................
A lot of questions run through my mind everyday, and they have become a burden to my heart;
Why cant we make something relevant in the technology sector (e.g invention)?
why are we still struggling with power generation(PHCH)?
why is there a high rate of unemployment?
why are our politicians so corrupt?
why do we all prefer to leave our country(at least a high percentage)?
why cant we have enough universities?
why do we prefer to do scam(419)than other legitimate business?
why cant we have our own refineries?,
To be continued.....................
Nigeria youth and Admission problems
Alot of us Nigerians are still battling with the issue of entering universities, but most of us wait ignorantly, while waiting for admission, there host of other things we can engage in, from learning a craft, to increasing our knowledge.
While waiting for admission, we can enroll in for computer classes,language courses, or even start up professional courses from the beginners level, instead alot of us waste precious time doing nothing. Sitting at home would not help you, or getting involved in other activities that would not improve us, our alm is to look for something important to do that will add value to our lives.
While waiting for admission, we can enroll in for computer classes,language courses, or even start up professional courses from the beginners level, instead alot of us waste precious time doing nothing. Sitting at home would not help you, or getting involved in other activities that would not improve us, our alm is to look for something important to do that will add value to our lives.
Challenges facing the Nigerian youth
Challenges facing the Nigerian youth in a globalisied world
Globalisation is a new historical reality that is propelled by knowledge and technological advancement. The rapid expansion of markets across national boundaries and the socio-political effects it brings, has grave implications for developing countries including Nigeria. There is consensus that less developed and technologically disadvantaged countries shall be unable to take advantage of the increased opportunities that globalisation provides and are to be increasingly powerless and marginalised. (Bolton, 2007; Anao, 2002).
Evidently, successful integration into the global economy shall be a tall order for Nigeria, considering the perceived challenges that confront majority of Nigeria’s overwhelming youth population. These include:
Restricted access to functional and qualitative education
Despite enormous progress made in educational outcomes, there are still many young people who lack basic skills needed to support their post-school life. Though high enrolment are reported in many States under the UBE scheme, early dropouts, grade repetition and poor education quality mean that many enter adolescence poorly prepared and ill-equipped for work and life.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (2006) 33% of persons aged 15 years and above could not read or write in any language. Higher literacy rate (79.6%) was recorded for urban areas. The primary school completion rate at the national level is dismal. Only 47% of children had access to secondary school (69.3%, urban and 37.5%, rural); The South West reported highest figure of 69.4%, followed by South-South (48%) and South East recording the lowest (32.3%). As many as 43.4% expressed dissatisfaction with their secondary education. The level of satisfaction was highest in South West (74.8%) and lowest in North East (42.1%).
Furthermore, there are proven significant shortfalls in available educational infrastructure to provide access to a functional and qualitative [VOCATION-ORIENTED] education for all Nigeria children and youths if the Millennium Development Goals are to be met.
Worse still, the curriculum content and delivery of our school system are hardly consistent with post-school employment requirements. Currently, the consequences of our failure to effectively implement the 6-3-3-4 education system are stirring us at the face. ICT penetration has been insignificant for the majority of children and youths, except for the rich.
Grossly limited access to employment
Succinctly put, transition from school to work remains a major challenge, such that many young persons end up either unemployed or underemployed in the informal sector with little or no protection and prospects (UNECA, 2006). Currently, the expansion of employment opportunities is far below the growth in the youth population, partly because of lack of commensurate investments and appropriate technologies.
Prolonged dependence on imported goods, ranging from tooth picks to tissue papers, polished rice to house hold furniture, paints, cars, textiles and second hand wears etc in preference to anything “Made in Nigeria” goods, has tacitly undermined genuine attempts to boost local production efforts.
Locally manufactured goods are perceived as substandard, fake, imitation, corrupted and unreliable. Nigeria’s 140 million population has in stead provided ready market and supported the economy and labour force of other countries. Cheap and substandard goods “from abroad” have for long been dumped on gullible Nigerians; all depleting the forex needs of the nation and displacing local workforce. India, South Korea, Singapore and Malaysia are worthy examples of economies that have developed from within. Nigeria must chat its course in a determined and aggressive manner if she must assert its identity and survive.
Lack of access to business support funds and migration
Aggravated by lack of economic opportunities like soft loans or grants to start businesses, most ill-prepared youths migrate to urban areas or to other countries at great risk, even untimely death, to seek often elusive greener pastures. Dashed hopes easily propel most vulnerable ones to crime, prostitution, drugs, robberies, cult-related activities, militancy etc.
Lack of access to reliable health support
As in most developing countries, youths in Nigeria are vulnerable to debilitating diseases and various health problems associated with inadequate national healthcare services, poverty and promiscuity. The high incidence of HIV/AIDs among Nigerian youth is a matter of national concern. This poses one of the greatest challenges to sustainable development..
Over-dependence on oil
According to the United Nations Security Council’s Global Policy Forum, “Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is also one of the best endowed in terms of natural resources. Yet, it is one of the poorest countries in the world. As is the case with many oil-rich developing countries, oil reserves have proved a mixed blessing for Nigeria. Since 1974, only 14 years after independence, oil production for export has been by far the main source of revenue for the government. (Either by choice or default) ... The oil industry has expanded in Nigeria at the expense of other previously important production sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing. This has created regional imbalances and an increasingly unequal distribution of wealth between different sectors of society, deepening the potential for conflict in this complex multi-ethnic nation. “
Report from Essential Action & Global Exchange - "Oil for Nothing: Multinational Corps, Environmental Destruction, Death &: Impunity in the Niger Delta".
This persistent trend has accounted largely for Nigeria’s woes and has justifiably agitated the citizenry, particularly its teaming youth population. The implication has been overdependence on expatriates who dominate and man the industry to the detriment of nationals. A holistic response, backed with the requisite political will is urgently required to return the country to the part of rectitude.
Over exposure to negative western cultures
Aided by the proliferation of information technology through cable networks, the internet, advanced mobile communication facilities, the world has indeed become a global village. The negative consequences however is that most Nigerian youths who are not productively engaged are hooked on to strange western cultures emulated through these media that alienate them further from their traditional roots. Drug use and abuse, violence, promiscuity, access to ammunitions, gangsterism etc, are known to be negative behaviours that are learnt and made lifestyles through these channels.
Distanced from cherished cultural values
The well acknowledged decay of time tested and highly regarded traditional value systems are pointers to the generational gap created in contemporary Nigeria to the detriment of its youth, who will emerge as the custodians of our respective cultures and leaders of tomorrow. This gap erodes the identity and rich cultural heritage that has remained a source of our national pride among the comity of nations. Embedded in this heritage is the culture of duty, hard work, social and civic responsibility, sense of dignity in labour, productivity, honesty, transparency, respect for elders and the status quo.
Over exposure to the culture of greed and corruption
Today’s youth are the real victims of Nigeria’s resource-curse dilemma. They were born and raised during the darkest era of Nigeria’s economic history, characterised by greed, misrule, recklessness in the management of national resources, deprivation marginalisation in the name of QUOTA SYSTEM and unbridled poverty in the midst of plenty. They were indeed born into a culture of institutionalised corruption in every facet of the national life and were psychologically sedated to imbibe the lifestyle of greed, selfishness, fraud, examination malpractice, a get-rich-quick-at-all-cost mentality, disrespect for law and order. These are Nigeria’s endangered youth population, to who Nigeria must restitute to secure its future.
Ethnicity and lack of National consciousness
Our multi-ethnicity has been one of our greatest assets as a nation. It has also been our greatest challenge in the process of nation building. There is a low national consciousness and loyalty. Nigerians often refer to themselves, first as Northerners, Southerners, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Ijaw, and Efik, before seeing themselves as Nigerians. To them, being Nigerian is secondary. This can not be said of the American or even the Ghanaian. This speaks volumes and will remain a major challenge to the enterprising Nigerian youth who stand the risk of being reminded any day, anywhere in his motherland that he/she is a stranger, whose landmark contributions to national development can be deliberately sidelined because of where he/she comes from
Globalisation is a new historical reality that is propelled by knowledge and technological advancement. The rapid expansion of markets across national boundaries and the socio-political effects it brings, has grave implications for developing countries including Nigeria. There is consensus that less developed and technologically disadvantaged countries shall be unable to take advantage of the increased opportunities that globalisation provides and are to be increasingly powerless and marginalised. (Bolton, 2007; Anao, 2002).
Evidently, successful integration into the global economy shall be a tall order for Nigeria, considering the perceived challenges that confront majority of Nigeria’s overwhelming youth population. These include:
Restricted access to functional and qualitative education
Despite enormous progress made in educational outcomes, there are still many young people who lack basic skills needed to support their post-school life. Though high enrolment are reported in many States under the UBE scheme, early dropouts, grade repetition and poor education quality mean that many enter adolescence poorly prepared and ill-equipped for work and life.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (2006) 33% of persons aged 15 years and above could not read or write in any language. Higher literacy rate (79.6%) was recorded for urban areas. The primary school completion rate at the national level is dismal. Only 47% of children had access to secondary school (69.3%, urban and 37.5%, rural); The South West reported highest figure of 69.4%, followed by South-South (48%) and South East recording the lowest (32.3%). As many as 43.4% expressed dissatisfaction with their secondary education. The level of satisfaction was highest in South West (74.8%) and lowest in North East (42.1%).
Furthermore, there are proven significant shortfalls in available educational infrastructure to provide access to a functional and qualitative [VOCATION-ORIENTED] education for all Nigeria children and youths if the Millennium Development Goals are to be met.
Worse still, the curriculum content and delivery of our school system are hardly consistent with post-school employment requirements. Currently, the consequences of our failure to effectively implement the 6-3-3-4 education system are stirring us at the face. ICT penetration has been insignificant for the majority of children and youths, except for the rich.
Grossly limited access to employment
Succinctly put, transition from school to work remains a major challenge, such that many young persons end up either unemployed or underemployed in the informal sector with little or no protection and prospects (UNECA, 2006). Currently, the expansion of employment opportunities is far below the growth in the youth population, partly because of lack of commensurate investments and appropriate technologies.
Prolonged dependence on imported goods, ranging from tooth picks to tissue papers, polished rice to house hold furniture, paints, cars, textiles and second hand wears etc in preference to anything “Made in Nigeria” goods, has tacitly undermined genuine attempts to boost local production efforts.
Locally manufactured goods are perceived as substandard, fake, imitation, corrupted and unreliable. Nigeria’s 140 million population has in stead provided ready market and supported the economy and labour force of other countries. Cheap and substandard goods “from abroad” have for long been dumped on gullible Nigerians; all depleting the forex needs of the nation and displacing local workforce. India, South Korea, Singapore and Malaysia are worthy examples of economies that have developed from within. Nigeria must chat its course in a determined and aggressive manner if she must assert its identity and survive.
Lack of access to business support funds and migration
Aggravated by lack of economic opportunities like soft loans or grants to start businesses, most ill-prepared youths migrate to urban areas or to other countries at great risk, even untimely death, to seek often elusive greener pastures. Dashed hopes easily propel most vulnerable ones to crime, prostitution, drugs, robberies, cult-related activities, militancy etc.
Lack of access to reliable health support
As in most developing countries, youths in Nigeria are vulnerable to debilitating diseases and various health problems associated with inadequate national healthcare services, poverty and promiscuity. The high incidence of HIV/AIDs among Nigerian youth is a matter of national concern. This poses one of the greatest challenges to sustainable development..
Over-dependence on oil
According to the United Nations Security Council’s Global Policy Forum, “Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is also one of the best endowed in terms of natural resources. Yet, it is one of the poorest countries in the world. As is the case with many oil-rich developing countries, oil reserves have proved a mixed blessing for Nigeria. Since 1974, only 14 years after independence, oil production for export has been by far the main source of revenue for the government. (Either by choice or default) ... The oil industry has expanded in Nigeria at the expense of other previously important production sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing. This has created regional imbalances and an increasingly unequal distribution of wealth between different sectors of society, deepening the potential for conflict in this complex multi-ethnic nation. “
Report from Essential Action & Global Exchange - "Oil for Nothing: Multinational Corps, Environmental Destruction, Death &: Impunity in the Niger Delta".
This persistent trend has accounted largely for Nigeria’s woes and has justifiably agitated the citizenry, particularly its teaming youth population. The implication has been overdependence on expatriates who dominate and man the industry to the detriment of nationals. A holistic response, backed with the requisite political will is urgently required to return the country to the part of rectitude.
Over exposure to negative western cultures
Aided by the proliferation of information technology through cable networks, the internet, advanced mobile communication facilities, the world has indeed become a global village. The negative consequences however is that most Nigerian youths who are not productively engaged are hooked on to strange western cultures emulated through these media that alienate them further from their traditional roots. Drug use and abuse, violence, promiscuity, access to ammunitions, gangsterism etc, are known to be negative behaviours that are learnt and made lifestyles through these channels.
Distanced from cherished cultural values
The well acknowledged decay of time tested and highly regarded traditional value systems are pointers to the generational gap created in contemporary Nigeria to the detriment of its youth, who will emerge as the custodians of our respective cultures and leaders of tomorrow. This gap erodes the identity and rich cultural heritage that has remained a source of our national pride among the comity of nations. Embedded in this heritage is the culture of duty, hard work, social and civic responsibility, sense of dignity in labour, productivity, honesty, transparency, respect for elders and the status quo.
Over exposure to the culture of greed and corruption
Today’s youth are the real victims of Nigeria’s resource-curse dilemma. They were born and raised during the darkest era of Nigeria’s economic history, characterised by greed, misrule, recklessness in the management of national resources, deprivation marginalisation in the name of QUOTA SYSTEM and unbridled poverty in the midst of plenty. They were indeed born into a culture of institutionalised corruption in every facet of the national life and were psychologically sedated to imbibe the lifestyle of greed, selfishness, fraud, examination malpractice, a get-rich-quick-at-all-cost mentality, disrespect for law and order. These are Nigeria’s endangered youth population, to who Nigeria must restitute to secure its future.
Ethnicity and lack of National consciousness
Our multi-ethnicity has been one of our greatest assets as a nation. It has also been our greatest challenge in the process of nation building. There is a low national consciousness and loyalty. Nigerians often refer to themselves, first as Northerners, Southerners, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Ijaw, and Efik, before seeing themselves as Nigerians. To them, being Nigerian is secondary. This can not be said of the American or even the Ghanaian. This speaks volumes and will remain a major challenge to the enterprising Nigerian youth who stand the risk of being reminded any day, anywhere in his motherland that he/she is a stranger, whose landmark contributions to national development can be deliberately sidelined because of where he/she comes from
TIME IS PRECIOUS
Nigeria-youth i would like to ask us this question "AFTER SECONDARY SCHOOL WHAT NEXT"? I know the obvious answer to that question is ofcourse to gain admission to the university, or a college of some sort, but we have come to undrstand that because of the population of our dear country Nigeria, not everybody can get into a university at the same time, so therefore it becomes survival of the fittest, i for one had to stay for five years before i finally started my real BSC degree. My point is that while at home we should endeavour to get something doing, go for a course in computer, study a language, learn an art work, improve on a skill, just do something and like i said no knowledge is wasted, dont be surprised somewhere along the line you'll need those skill. "WHEN OPPOURTUNITY MEETS WITH PREPARATION IT EQUALS TO SUCCESS". After secondary school, we should have other objectives and aims of things or visions we can achieve, because Nigeria is highly populated, so the competition is high so we need proper preparation in other to be above our pairs, in job interviews its not only about what you study but how vast you are, thats what they're interested in. IF YOU WASTE TIME, TIME WILL WASTE YOU.
EDUCATION
I have come to understand that getting into the university is one major problem Nigerian-youth face, well not to worry, am not saying that i want to provide more schools, thats not even the issue, here in school, in a course am taking called economic development, the issue of Nigerian playing down on informal education is something that is causing great concern, am not saying that formal education is not good, as a matter of fact i come from the school of thought that says that formal education is very essential, however i'll try to explain the types of education we have to us. Formal education is that which you take in the four walls of a classroom or the college or university, while the latter is not restricted to the classsroom, informal education is something that is passed from one generation to the other, it usually goes in the act of what you can do, i have come to understand that underplaying on informal education is what countries like China avoid, as a matter of fact, the asian countries thrive more on informal education, and we can see clearly what impact that has on their economy, formal education is good no doubt, but we need to wake up to the reality that informal education will go a long way to profit us and our economy, Nigerian-youth while you're still trying to get admission or something why dont you give yourself another form of education that might not necessarily be within a four wall?LETS THINK ABOUT IT.
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