‘80% of Nigerians lack skills, emotional intelligence’

As Nigeria’s vibrant, youthful population is facing a silent crisis that threatens its economic future, the founder of Career Quest Foundation, Olufemi Odebode, has stated that the problem is not a simple lack of jobs but a deep-seated “employability issue.” In a press statement, Odebode stated that over 80% of Nigerians lack the fundamental skills […]

As Nigeria’s vibrant, youthful population is facing a silent crisis that threatens its economic future, the founder of Career Quest Foundation, Olufemi Odebode, has stated that the problem is not a simple lack of jobs but a deep-seated “employability issue.”

In a press statement, Odebode stated that over 80% of Nigerians lack the fundamental skills and emotional intelligence needed for the modern workforce, thus led to a vicious cycle of brain drain, where skilled professionals leave the country in search of better opportunities, further depleting Nigeria’s talent pool.

He said while official unemployment figures may suggest a different reality, experts on the ground point to a stark paradox as a massive number of jobless young people coexist with a severe shortage of skilled labour across key sectors.

“The foundation’s analysis suggests that the core of the problem goes beyond a simple skills mismatch but rooted in a systemic lack of consequences for wrongdoing, which tempts many to seek fast money through illegal means.

This culture of shortcuts devalues genuine effort and specialized expertise, leading to social decay and a decline in national productivity. The press release noted the vital role of the judiciary and legal system, advocating for reforms to ensure justice is swift and fair, making crime a less attractive path.”

He stated the country’s educational system is also highlighted as a major culprit, with a clear disconnect between what is taught in classrooms and the skills demanded by industries.

“This gap forces companies to import foreign professionals to fill critical roles, a “capital flight” that further drains the economy. The foundation advocates for a shift towards vocational and technical training that is aligned with market demand.”

In response, CQF is positioning itself as a bridge between talent and opportunity. Its strategy combines systemic reform with grassroots action. At the policy level, the foundation advocates for stronger accountability in the legal system and urgent reforms in education.

At the community level, it is promoting vocational and technical training aligned with market needs, while championing welfare measures such as fair wages and health insurance to make skilled careers both dignified and rewarding.

“Nigeria’s future depends on valuing skilled labour today,” Odebode said.

“We must take practical steps to rebuild our workforce capacity and reverse the cycle of talent loss.

“Supporting organizations like the Career Quest Foundation is not just corporate responsibility. It is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s prosperity.”