The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and other industry stakeholders called for urgent reforms to address Nigeria’s widening skills gap, warning that the shortage of technical and vocational talent could affect the country’s long-term economic growth.
The concerns were raised during a Technical and Vocational Education and Training summit held in Lagos, where participants highlighted increasing reliance on foreign skilled workers as a sign of deeper structural challenges within the labour market. Stakeholders noted that without immediate action, several sectors could continue to struggle with productivity and efficiency.
Business leaders explained that employers are already facing difficulties in sourcing qualified artisans, including carpenters, bricklayers, and tilers. This shortage has led many companies to recruit talent from neighbouring West African countries, a development they said increases operational costs and slows the growth of local capacity.
Stakeholders also pointed to a disconnect between the education system and industry requirements. According to representatives at the summit, many graduates enter the workforce without the practical skills needed to perform effectively, leaving companies unable to fill critical roles despite high levels of unemployment.
They emphasized that industries must take a more active role in shaping training curricula to ensure alignment with real market needs. Without this coordination, stakeholders warned that labour shortages and unemployment would continue to exist simultaneously.
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The impact of the skills gap is particularly evident among small and medium-sized enterprises, which rely heavily on skilled labour for daily operations. Limited access to qualified workers has been linked to slower production, rising costs, and reduced capacity for business expansion, especially in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and services.
Participants further highlighted the risks associated with Nigeria’s growing population, noting that failure to invest in skills development could result in a workforce that is not adequately prepared for available opportunities. They warned that this could increase unemployment levels and widen economic inequality.
Stakeholders concluded that addressing the skills gap would require sustained investment, policy reforms, and stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors. They stressed that improving technical and vocational training is essential to building a competitive workforce and supporting Nigeria’s broader economic ambitions.
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