We all know the job market in Maiduguri, and frankly across Nigeria, isn't what many fresh graduates dreamed of when they hit the campus. The stories of countless young people finishing school, ready to serve their NYSC and dive into a career, only to find few doors open — it’s real and often disheartening. But as someone who has walked this road and mentored many, I want to share practical, down-to-earth advice on how graduates can build employability even when the economy feels like it’s working against them.
The Harsh Reality of Today’s Job Market
Let’s start by acknowledging the elephants in the room: Many companies in Borno and other parts of Nigeria are still recovering from economic slowdown and security challenges. Public sector roles are limited, and the private sector demands both experience and tech-savvy skills that many graduates lack. It’s not hopeless but it does require a proactive, strategic approach.
1. Go Beyond the Certificate
Many graduates believe their degree alone should open doors. Unfortunately, the truth is that certificates now only get your foot in the door. You must have what I call “wearable skills” — abilities that employers see and immediately find useful. Think computer literacy, basic accounting, social media marketing, or even project management. For example, a graduate with a diploma in Mass Communication who also knows how to manage a Facebook business page or create simple animations will be way ahead of their peers.
In Maiduguri, local training centers, some NGOs, and even online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and local initiatives sometimes offer affordable courses. This is an investment worth making. Yet more important is the application of these skills. Volunteer to manage social media for local SMEs or help a community group keep records digitally. Experience like this is gold on your CV.
2. Network Intelligently and Locally
We say “it’s not who you know, but what you know,” but from my experience, it’s actually both. Who you meet in Maiduguri can directly influence your employability. Attend local workshops, community events, and even ceremonies where you can respectfully introduce yourself to people who hold decision-making roles. Your uncle or family friend may not just be a good person to chat with; they might connect you to future jobs.
Don’t ignore social media too — join LinkedIn groups specifically for Nigerian professionals, or join WhatsApp groups where job adverts and opportunities circulate daily. The challenge is to approach networking with genuine interest, not just job hunting desperation. Building relationships will bring referrals and mentorship opportunities that many grads overlook.
3. Take Up Internships and Freelance Gigs, No Matter How Small
Internships, even if unpaid, are bridges to employment. For example, a Nutrition graduate could approach local hospitals, clinics, or NGOs offering a helping hand. If you impress, it might turn into something more permanent or at least give you references for future jobs. Freelancing in your skill area — writing articles, designing logos, tutoring younger students — can also sharpen your skills and earn you some money.
Remember, employers want to see evidence of your capability. Even a 3-month volunteering stint managing records for a local charity can make you stand out as proactive and reliable.
4. Mind Your Soft Skills
Communication, punctuality, resilience, and teamwork. These are often overlooked but crucial. I’ve met many highly educated graduates who struggle with simple workplace etiquette or stress handling. Practice punctuality and personal discipline. If you don’t have stable internet for online interviews, find local cybercafés or use your phone responsibly to avoid embarrassment during calls.
Soft skills get you recommended for promotion or calls from employers when a position opens. They often matter more in a tight job market.
5. Keep Your Options Open, Including Entrepreneurship
Not everyone will land a formal job immediately, but that doesn’t mean you should wait idly. Consider starting small businesses even alongside your job search. For example, selling food items like masa or kunu, offering tailoring services, or doing small-scale farming can provide income and teach you business skills valued by employers.
Entrepreneurship builds resilience, and it teaches problem-solving and customer service — all transferable and marketable skills.
Closing Thoughts
Graduates in Maiduguri, you are more than your degree. The harsh reality calls for a new mindset, one that embraces continuous learning, deliberate networking, and practical experience, no matter how humble. The market might be tough, but those who prepare themselves in these areas will not only survive but thrive. It’s about being intentional every day, finding ways to improve and connecting authentically with your community and beyond.
Now, I want to throw this out to you all:
- What non-degree skills have you found most useful in your own job search or career growth?
- Have you ever landed a job or opportunity through networking in Maiduguri or online? How did it happen?
- What practical advice would you give new graduates trying to find work in today’s Nigeria?