Rising Scourge of Unemployment and Potential Threat to National Growth

By Professor Abdulkarim Garba

Unemployment is a pressing issue that plagues economies worldwide, including Nigeria. It is a multifaceted problem with far-reaching socio-economic consequences.

In Nigeria, the problem of unemployment is particularly acute, affecting millions of individuals across various demographics. This series aims to delve into the concept of unemployment, examine its types and rates in Nigeria, analyse the underlying causes, and propose potential remedies to mitigate this pervasive issue.

Concept of Unemployment:

Unemployment refers to the state of being without a job despite being willing and able to work. In other words, unemployment is a situation in which individuals who are able and willing to work are unable to find suitable employment.

It is a concern that not only affects the individuals directly involved, but also has far-reaching implications for the national economy. It is a key indicator of economic health, reflecting underutilization of human resources and inefficiencies within the labour market.

Types of Unemployment in Nigeria:

Unemployment manifests in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and implications. In Nigeria, unemployment can be categorized into several types.

Structural Unemployment: This arises from a mismatch between the skills possessed by the workforce and the skills demanded by employers. In Nigeria, structural unemployment is prevalent due to deficiencies in the education system and inadequate training programs that fail to equip individuals with relevant skills for available job opportunities.

Frictional Unemployment: Frictional unemployment occurs when individuals are temporarily out of work while transitioning between jobs or entering the workforce for the first time.

In Nigeria, the high rate of frictional unemployment can be attributed to the lack of effective job search mechanisms, limited information about job vacancies, and bureaucratic hurdles in the recruitment process.

Cyclical Unemployment: Also known as demand-deficient unemployment, cyclical unemployment results from fluctuations in economic activity, particularly during periods of recession or downturn. Nigeria’s economy is highly susceptible to cyclical unemployment due to its dependence on volatile sectors such as oil and gas, which are vulnerable to external shocks and market fluctuations.

Seasonal Unemployment: Seasonal unemployment occurs when certain industries or occupations experience fluctuations in demand based on seasonal patterns. In Nigeria, agricultural workers often face seasonal unemployment during the off-peak farming seasons when there is limited agricultural activity.

READ ALSO: 

Understanding Solutions to Scourge of Poverty in Nigeria

Implications of Unemployment

The implications of high unemployment rates on national economies can be devastating. When a large segment of the labour force is unable to find employment, it leads to a decrease in consumer spending, which can negatively impact businesses and result in lower economic growth.

Unemployment also leads to increased poverty and inequality, as well as social unrest and political instability. Furthermore, high levels of unemployment can result in lost productivity and human capital, which can hinder long-term economic development.

Causes of Unemployment in Nigeria:

The unemployment rate in Nigeria has remained persistently high, exacerbating social inequalities and hindering sustainable development. Several factors contribute to the high levels of unemployment in Nigeria include,

Population Explosion: Nigeria’s population growth rate exceeds its economic growth rate, leading to a burgeoning labour force that outpaces job creation efforts.

Weak Industrial Base: The Nigerian economy is heavily reliant on the oil and gas sector, which accounts for a significant portion of government revenue. This dependence has stifled the development of other sectors, resulting in limited employment opportunities outside of the oil industry.

Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor infrastructure, including inadequate transportation networks, unreliable power supply, and lack of access to basic amenities, hampers productivity and discourages investment, thereby constraining job creation efforts.

Policy Inconsistencies: Inconsistent and ineffective policies, coupled with regulatory bottlenecks and bureaucratic red tape, create an unfavourable business environment that hampers entrepreneurship and investment, leading to limited job opportunities.

Skills Mismatch: There is a disconnect between the skills possessed by the workforce and the skills demanded by employers, exacerbating structural unemployment and hindering economic diversification efforts.

READ ALSO: 

Tinubu Challenges Universities to Advance Knowledge Solutions on Poverty, Unemployment

Possible Remedies for Unemployment in Nigeria:

Addressing the issue of unemployment in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that addresses underlying structural constraints while fostering inclusive growth and job creation. Some potential remedies include:

Diversification of the Economy: Nigeria must diversify its economy away from overreliance on the oil and gas sector by promoting investment in other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, information technology, and renewable energy. This diversification will create new employment opportunities and reduce vulnerability to external shocks.

Investment in Education and Skills Development: Enhancing the quality of education and vocational training programs is essential to equip the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in a modern economy. Government and private sector collaboration is needed to revamp the education system and align curricula with the demands of the labor market.

Infrastructure Development: Improving infrastructure, including transportation networks, power supply, and digital connectivity, will enhance productivity, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can play a crucial role in financing and implementing infrastructure projects.

Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): SMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and have the potential to generate significant employment opportunities. Providing access to finance, business development services, and technical assistance to SMEs will stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation.

Policy Reforms: Implementing consistent and business-friendly policies, streamlining regulatory processes, and reducing bureaucratic red tape will create an enabling environment for investment and entrepreneurship. Policy coherence and coordination across government agencies are essential to foster a conducive business environment.

Conclusion: Unemployment poses a formidable challenge to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, requiring concerted efforts from government, the private sector, civil society, and international partners to address effectively.

By implementing targeted interventions to promote economic diversification, invest in education and skills development, improve infrastructure, support SMEs, and enact policy reforms, Nigeria can unlock its vast potential and create a more inclusive and prosperous future for its citizens.

Prof. Abdulkarim Garba is Senior Lecturer at Department of Banking and Finance,

Faculty of Management Sciences

Bayero University, Kano

PMB 3011, Kano

Email: agarba.bf@buk.edu.ng