(DDM) – The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Students’ Union Government has convened a virtual summit to address the deepening youth unemployment crisis in Nigeria.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the session attracted youth leaders, academics, and international development experts who examined the root causes of joblessness and charted possible solutions.
Global Experts Join Call For Employment Reforms
The summit featured contributions from global speakers, including RYNI CEO, Dr. Lawson Obasenu, who emphasized the need to reassess Nigeria’s economic strategies.
Obasenu raised a fundamental question – whether the government or citizens should be held accountable for the nation’s rising unemployment rates.
He maintained that blame games would not solve the crisis, stressing the need for structural reforms in education, job creation, and skills training.
Skill Acquisition And Entrepreneurship Highlighted
Participants at the event underscored the importance of vocational training and entrepreneurial support in empowering young Nigerians to thrive in a challenging economy.
They urged government agencies and private organizations to expand initiatives that equip graduates with practical skills relevant to emerging industries.
Speakers also recommended targeted funding for startups and innovation-driven enterprises to create sustainable employment opportunities.
Summit Chair Sees Event As Defining Moment
Summit chairperson, Godgift Oghenegavwraye, described the dialogue as a defining step towards finding workable solutions for Nigeria’s job crisis.
He noted that the active participation of youth leaders and global experts reflected a growing determination to drive policy reforms and challenge outdated economic practices.
Background Of Unemployment Crisis
Nigeria’s unemployment rate has remained a source of concern for economists, policymakers, and social commentators.
According to recent data, millions of graduates remain without jobs due to limited industrial growth, economic instability, and skill mismatches in the labor market.
PTI students said the summit was designed to shift the conversation from rhetoric to actionable strategies that can stimulate job creation and economic inclusion.
Next Steps And Policy Engagement
The Students’ Union pledged to forward key resolutions from the summit to government agencies, labor unions, and international partners to ensure policy alignment with youth-driven solutions.
They also announced plans to host follow-up forums focused on innovation, oil and gas diversification, and digital skills development.
