Judul : 70% of Nigerian Engineering Graduates Lack Industry Skills — Report
link : 70% of Nigerian Engineering Graduates Lack Industry Skills — Report
70% of Nigerian Engineering Graduates Lack Industry Skills — Report
A 2023 survey on skills and competencies has shown that over 70 percent of Nigerian engineering graduates do not possess the practical technical abilities needed by current industries, with only approximately 5 percent considered ready for the workforce upon completing their studies, according to those involved, who claim this gap endangers the country's productivity and international competitiveness.
At the inauguration of the first Nigerian Engineering Olympiad (NEO) in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, stated that the competition directly addresses the concerning results of the survey.
He stated, "Our engineering capacity has been affected by a significant skills shortage. According to the 2023 report, only roughly 5 percent of Nigerian engineering graduates are prepared for the workforce, and more than 70 percent are missing the practical technical abilities required in modern industries," Ogbe said.
He mentioned that the Olympiad corresponds to the NCDMB’s goal of fostering human-capital growth and local innovation.
Our goal is to establish Nigeria as a center for engineering innovation. With this Olympiad, we intend to create a national platform that recognizes, develops, and assists outstanding talent within higher education institutions.
Ogbe also urged increased cooperation between government, academic institutions, and the private sector to ensure that practical research leads to tangible industrial applications.
In her speech, the President and Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Oguntala, referred to the Olympiad as "a turning point in the history of engineering education in Nigeria," emphasizing that Nigeria cannot stand on the global stage if student inventions remain "unused on library shelves rather than driving industries and small enterprises."
She mentioned that the Olympiad establishes a systematic national pathway — including regional competitions, prototype workshops, continuous design, product testing, intellectual property assistance, and a national final in April 2026 — all aimed at turning student concepts into marketable technologies.
"Ideas have the power to change the world. Each significant invention started with one idea... and Nigeria is full of such imaginative thinkers in our universities now," she stated, noting that the Olympiad will serve as "a national innovation incubator," providing mentorship, initial funding, and technical support.
Oguntala also pointed out the NSE's recent $17.4 million collaboration with MIDAS IT from India to introduce cutting-edge engineering design software in 15 universities, stating that it would "enhance academic quality and equip young engineers for global competition."
Today, we spark a flame that will illuminate the path for Nigeria's engineering tomorrow," she stated. "The inventions emerging from this Olympiad have the potential to become the solutions that propel our industries, enhance our infrastructure, and elevate our communities.
The head of Exploration and Production's Integrated Gas Development division, Yetunde Taiwo, stated that the company's participation is driven by a dedication to innovation and the growth of skilled personnel.
"Our fundamental values focus on nurturing talent, creativity, and starting businesses. Several long-standing issues within the sector can be addressed by these exceptionally intelligent young individuals," she stated, noting that early involvement in the industry could help minimize the loss of skilled professionals by establishing clear routes into the job market.
On behalf of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, Nigerian Content Manager Olanrewaju Olawunyi stated that their assistance aligns with a longstanding commitment to enhancing human resources development.
"We originate from Nigeria and are designed for Africa. We focus on investing in individuals. People are our most valuable asset," he stated, adding that Renaissance supports STEM education at all levels, from primary to higher education, offers fully funded scholarships, and provides sponsorship for postgraduate studies abroad for individuals from the Niger Delta.
"This is more than a temporary event. All our initiatives are conducted annually and are completely supported financially, and we also compensate students during their internships," he further mentioned.
On behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Technical Advisor Ebiho Agun stated that the Olympiad corresponds to government goals and future labor market requirements.
It offers young people the chance to expand their creativity, enhance their technical skills, and showcase their talent at a national and global level," he stated, referring to the Olympiad as "a driver for guidance, exploration, and sustained professional growth.
"You represent the pulse of Nigeria's tomorrow. Stay strong in your quest for greatness," he said to the attendees.
Michael Ajayi, the Country Director of Enactus Nigeria, stated that the Olympiad was created considering Nigeria's demographic situation, pointing out that a population ranging from 200 to 250 million — where approximately 70 percent are young — cannot handle increasing joblessness.
"Unemployment is surpassing 30%. The question is: how can we utilize the energy, creativity, and ambition of young individuals to aid in the country's progress?" he questioned.
Ajayi mentioned that the Olympiad would enable young engineers to address practical challenges and establish businesses that generate employment.
"If we motivate these innovations and allow them to flourish, you will see young individuals leading business initiatives and creating opportunities for others," he stated.
He emphasized that technical guidance would be key, stating that experts in engineering and business development would "literally guide the participants" to offer technical, financial, and business assistance.
He mentioned that the Olympiad is available to all engineering disciplines in recognized institutions, with potential future growth to include science-oriented students.
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