The Nation Newspaper

Category: Online Special

  • Top seven foods to avoid at night

    Top seven foods to avoid at night

    It is agreed that food makes a person healthy. Eating the right foods at the right time is essential to the health. Studies show that some foods contribute to some illnesses. As the saying goes, you eat like a king in the morning, you eat like a prince in the afternoon and you eat like a common man in the night. This will promote better and balanced health.

    While there is no specific time to eat at night, medical experts suggest that dinner should be taken by within 2-3 hours before bedtime, which is most likely 8-9p.m. Still, many people compromise this, especially in a society where that’s the period they return home from work.

    Remember, health is wealth.

    Below are the foods to avoid at night:

    1. Junk

    Junk foods such as pastries, snacks, and fries should be avoided at night. Such foods contain lots of sugar and fats which can cause bloating and slow digestion. They also weigh heavily on the stomach because of the oil content.

    2. Heavy meals

    Heavy meals such as Nigerian traditional dishes (swallow) are commonly consumed foods at night. Starchy foods, especially served in large quantities, and heavy foods like eba should be avoided at night. It is high in calories and can cause discomfort while sleeping. Studies show this as one of the causes of abdominal weight gain, e.g. potbelly.

    3. Carbonated drinks

    Carbonated drinks like sodas and minerals are highly carbonated. If consumed at night, they can lead to bloating, discomfort during sleep as a result of the large amount of sugar.

    Read Also: ‘Tinubu’s govt setting new tone for transparency, accountability in governance’

    4. Caffeine

    Caffeinated drinks such as coffee and energy drinks are commonly consumed by students. It helps to stimulate the brain and keeps you awake into the night. Although it boosts energy, it can still cause sleeplessness. This should be avoided at night as it can later lead to insomnia, which will further affect the concentration and productivity the next day.

    5. Red meats

    Red meats such as beef and pork contain large amounts of protein. It is harder to digest, compared to fish. If eaten at night in heavy portions, red meat might cause slow digestion, restlessness and increase the risk of acid reflux.

    6. Spicy Foods

    Common in many Nigerian dishes, foods that contain a lot of pepper and spices should be limited. It irritates the stomach lining and can cause stomach upset during sleep. This can lead to heartburn and worsening acid reflux. 

    7. Alcohol

    Alcohol contains ethanol, which acts as a depressant on the nervous system. While it may make you feel relaxed or sleepy at first, it actually disrupts deep sleep, dehydrates the body, and increases night-time urination.

  • Top five African nations that produced boxing legends

    Top five African nations that produced boxing legends

    From makeshift gyms in Bukom to sold-out arenas in Las Vegas, Africa has long punched above its weight in global boxing. The continent has produced champions whose grit, charisma, and artistry left an indelible mark on the sport. Some dazzled with flamboyance, others with quiet precision — but all carried the pride of their nations while breaking barriers and winning world titles.

    Here are five African countries that have produced the greatest boxing legends, tracing their rise, defining moments, and the cultural settings that shaped their success:

    1. Ghana

    In Accra’s famous neighbourhoods of Bukom and Jamestown, boxing is more than a sport — it is a way of life. Training often takes place in humble gyms with limited equipment, yet these spaces consistently produce world-class fighters. Ghanaian boxers are renowned for their toughness, discipline, and a rare blend of grit and flair.

    Azumah Nelson – “The Professor”

    Professional Record: 39-6-2 (28 KOs)

    Active Years: 1979–2008

    World Titles: WBC Featherweight (1984–1987), WBC Super-Featherweight (1988–1997)

    Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2004

    Azumah Nelson is not only Ghana’s greatest boxer but also one of the sport’s all-time icons. Nicknamed “The Professor” for his tactical brilliance, he shocked the boxing world in 1984 by defeating Puerto Rican star Wilfredo Gómez for the WBC featherweight title — despite stepping in as a late replacement. Over more than a decade, Nelson dominated two divisions, compiling a championship record of 18-4-2 (12 KOs).

    Key Achievement: In 2014, the WBC named him the greatest super-featherweight of all time.

    Ike “Bazooka” Quartey

    Record: 37-4-1 (31 KOs)

    World Title: WBA Welterweight Champion

    Armed with one of the sharpest jabs in boxing, Quartey defended his title seven times. His 1999 showdown with Oscar De La Hoya remains one of the sport’s most debated decisions, with many believing Quartey deserved victory.

    David “D.K. Poison” Kotei

    Record: 43-6-2-1 NC (21 KOs)

    World Title: WBC Featherweight Champion (1975)

    Kotei made history as Ghana’s first world champion. Beyond the ring, he became a national hero when he loaned $45,000 from his fight purse to Ghana’s government during a food crisis.

    Joshua Clottey

    Record: 41-5-1 NC (24 KOs)

    World Title: IBF Welterweight Champion (2008)

    A defensive specialist with an iron chin, Clottey fought elite opponents including Antonio Margarito, Miguel Cotto, and Manny Pacquiao, earning global respect for his toughness.

    Other notable Ghanaian fighters: Nana Yaw Konadu, Joseph Agbeko, Alfred Kotey, Richard Commey, Floyd Robertson, and Roy Ankrah.

    2. Nigeria

    Nigeria’s boxing tradition thrives in gritty gyms and open-air arenas across the country. Known for their fearless aggression and raw power, Nigerian fighters carved global reputations that endure.

    Dick Tiger (Richard Ihetu GCOI)

    Record: 60-19-3 (27 KOs)

    Active Years: 1952–1970

    World Titles: Undisputed Middleweight Champion; Light-Heavyweight Champion

    Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1991

    Born in Imo State, Dick Tiger rose from humble beginnings to international stardom, defeating legends such as Gene Fullmer and José Torres. Twice named Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year (1962, 1965), he became the first African inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

    Hogan “Kid” Bassey

    World Title: Featherweight Champion (1957)

    Nigeria’s first world champion, Bassey’s technical brilliance and discipline made him a pioneer and an inspiration for future generations. He later contributed to boxing as a trainer and mentor.

    Samuel Peter – “The Nigerian Nightmare”

    World Title: WBC Heavyweight Champion (2008)

    Feared for his knockout power, Peter dominated the heavyweight division in the 2000s. His victories brought global recognition back to Nigerian boxing.

    3. South Africa

    Despite decades of political and social upheaval, South Africa has produced both tactical masters and knockout specialists who left lasting legacies.

    Brian Mitchell

    Record: 45-1-3 (21 KOs)

    World Titles: Unified WBA, IBF, and Ring Super-Featherweight Champion

    Mitchell remains South Africa’s most decorated fighter, retiring undefeated in world title bouts — a rarity in boxing history.

    Vic Toweel

    Record: 28-3-1 (14 KOs)

    World Title: Bantamweight Champion (1950)

    As South Africa’s first world champion, Toweel’s relentless style made him a national icon in the 1950s.

    Jake Tuli

    Record: 31-14-2 (16 KOs)

    Title: British Empire (Commonwealth) Champion

    Tuli became the first Black South African to win a major boxing crown, breaking racial barriers and inspiring future stars.

    Other greats include: Vuyani Bungu, Francois Botha, and two-weight champion Zolani Tete.

    4. Uganda

    Uganda’s boxing legends are celebrated not only for their achievements but also for their extraordinary life stories.

    John “The Beast” Mugabi

    Record: 42-7-1 (39 KOs)

    Olympic Achievement: Silver Medal, 1980 Moscow Games

    World Title: WBC Super-Welterweight Champion

    Mugabi’s explosive knockout power made him one of the most feared fighters of the 1980s. His epic clash with Marvin Hagler remains a classic.

    Kassim Ouma

    World Title: IBF Light-Middleweight Champion (2004)

    Read Also: Boxing legends hails Joshua for victory over Klitschko

    From child soldier to world champion, Ouma’s journey is one of boxing’s most remarkable stories. His relentless, high-tempo style won him fans across the globe.

    5. Democratic Republic of Congo

    The Democratic Republic of Congo boasts a proud boxing heritage, blending historical milestones with modern champions.

    Ilunga Makabu

    World Title: WBC Cruiserweight Champion (2020–2023)

    A dangerous southpaw, Makabu thrilled fans with knockout victories on some of the sport’s biggest stages.

    Sumbu Kalambay

    World Title: WBA Middleweight Champion (late 1980s)

    A Congolese-Italian fighter, Kalambay was renowned for his technical skills and exceptional ring intelligence.

    Historic Highlight: The DRC hosted the iconic 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman — a fight that forever cemented Africa’s place in boxing hall of fame. 

  • Four artistes with dedicated songs children

    Four artistes with dedicated songs children

    Children are a heritage from God. There are different ways to celebrate children through naming ceremonies and dedications. Some music artistes, however, have expressed their love and joy for their babies, unborn and newborns, through their music. 

    Below are some music artistes who dedicated songs to their children:

    1. Mercy Chinwo

    The songwriter and actress, is known for infusing her songs with a touch of Igbo language, showcasing Nigerian culture and her identity. Married to Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa in 2023, she is blessed with two children.

    On August 15, 2025, she released a single, “Onyeoma” to celebrate her second child. Onyeoma is the Igbo translation of ‘Good God’. She used the song to express God’s goodness and love for adding another child to the family. Alongside the release, she shared beautiful pictures to showcase the joy of motherhood. 

    2. Juma Jux

    Juma Jux is a Tanzanian singer. He became popularly known in Nigeria when he tied the knot with his wife, Priscilla Ojo Mbakambala in 2025 in a glamorous wedding both in Nigeria and Tanzania.

    His wife, Priscilla, is the daughter of the popular actress, Iyabo Ojo. She is also an actress and ambassador to multiple brands.

    Juma Jux released, “Thank You” on July 25, 2025, dedicating it to his wife and unborn child. In the video, he expressed his love and happiness for his unborn child, and appreciation for his wife. Jux also pledged to love his child unconditionally.

    3. Moses Bliss

    Known for weaving Nigerian pidgin into his songs to connect with different levels of persons, his wedding ceremony in Ghana, in 2024 sparked widespread celebration. His wife, Marie Bliss, is a Ghanaian lawyer.

    Read Also: Seven African artistes who have performed in most countries

    On January 10, 2025, he released “Doing of the Lord”. The ‘doing’ referred to the first fruit, a son, that was added to his home. Featuring Nathaniel Bassey, he expressed God’s goodness and grace in his home.

    4. Simi

    Married to Adekunle Gold since 2019,

    Simi dedicated the iconic song “Duduke” to her unborn child, on April 16, 2020. ‘Duduke’ actually represents the sound of her heartbeat as she waited in anticipation of her unborn child. In the song, she expressed her longing to see her child’s face.

  • Eight shocking details in dismissal of police constable who stole a goat

    Eight shocking details in dismissal of police constable who stole a goat

    A shocking twist in Taraba State has exposed the embarrassing downfall of a serving police constable whose career came to an abrupt end, not in a blaze of glory but in the quiet theft of a goat.

     In what many have called a disgrace to the uniform, Police Constable Usman Mohammed, serving at the Mutum Biyu Division under the Taraba Police Command, was officially dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force on August 15, 2025, after being caught stealing a goat. 

    The incident, bizarre as it sounds, was not a social media rumor or an internal cover-up, it was handled through formal disciplinary procedures, and the result was decisive: immediate dismissal.

     8 Key discoveries from the incident:

    1. The theft happened on duty:

    PC Usman Mohammed reportedly committed the theft while still on active duty, raising serious concerns about discipline and integrity within the force.

    2. The target was a goat:

    The stolen item wasn’t money, drugs or weapons but adomesticated goat, which he allegedly stole for personal use.

    3. He was caught red-handed:

    Usman Mohammed was caught in the act by community members, not fellow officers. He was apprehended and the situation escalated quickly.

    4. Evidence was submitted:

    Photographic and eyewitness evidence played a role in confirming his guilt. Locals reportedly documented the incident before handing him over to police authorities.

    5. Disciplinary action followed immediately:

    Following due process under Regulation 370 of the Police Act (2010, as amended), a disciplinary panel found him guilty of gross misconduct.

    6. CP ordered immediate dismissal:

    The Commissioner of Police in Jalingo sent an official signal ordering his dismissal. The directive was firm and swift.

    Read Also: Fake soldier, serving police officer to die by hanging for armed robbery

    7. All Police items tetrieved:

    The constable’s uniform, ID card and any police-issued equipment were collected immediately upon dismissal. His access to official systems and pay was revoked.

    8. His service record updated with dismissal status:

    To close the chapter, his official police file was marked with dismissal status, which disqualifies him from any future government security appointments.

    This scandal, while seemingly minor compared to more serious police misconduct, struck a nerve with the public because of its symbolism, a law enforcement officer turning thief, even for something as small as a goat ,represents a serious breach of trust. It also raises broader concerns about the vetting, discipline, and welfare of officers in low-income divisions.

  • 10 essential financial tips for Nigerian students

    10 essential financial tips for Nigerian students

    Managing finances effectively is a crucial life skill that every Nigerian student should master to achieve financial stability and success. 

    By adopting simple yet effective strategies such as creating a budget, saving regularly, and avoiding unnecessary expenses, students can take control of their financial lives and build a secure future.

    Below are ten possible ways to avoid being broke as a Nigerian student:

    1. Create a Budget: Creating a budget involves tracking your income and expenses to understand where your money is going. It helps you prioritise your spending, make smart financial decisions, and avoid overspending.

    2. Save Regularly: Saving regularly is essential for building an emergency fund, saving for long-term goals, and achieving financial stability. It helps you develop a habit of setting aside a portion of your income for the future.

    3. Avoid Unnecessary Expenses: Avoiding unnecessary expenses involves being mindful of your spending habits and cutting back on non-essential expenses. This helps you save money, reduce debt, and allocate resources to more important things.

    4. Explore Income Opportunities: Exploring income opportunities involves looking for ways to increase your income, such as part-time jobs, freelancing, or selling products online. This helps you earn more money, improve your financial stability, and achieve your goals.

    Read Also: Top 10 5G smartphones under ₦200,000 in Nigeria

    5. Utilise Student Discounts: Utilising student discounts involves taking advantage of special offers and discounts available to students. This helps you save money on everyday expenses, such as transportation, food, and entertainment.

    6. Cook at Home: Cooking at home involves preparing meals at home instead of eating out or ordering food. This helps you save money on food expenses, eat healthier, and develop a valuable life skill.

    7. Use Public Transportation: Using public transportation involves opting for affordable transportation options, such as buses or tricycles, instead of owning a car or using ride-hailing services. This helps you save money on transportation expenses and reduce your carbon footprint.

    8. Avoid Impulse Purchases: Avoiding impulse purchases involves thinking twice before buying something that’s not essential. This helps you save money, reduce waste, and make more informed purchasing decisions.

    9. Develop Valuable Skills: Developing valuable skills involves acquiring skills that can increase your earning potential, such as learning a programming language, developing graphic design skills, or improving your writing or communication skills. This helps you improve your career prospects, earn more money, and achieve your goals.

    10. Seek Financial Guidance: Seeking financial guidance involves consulting with financial experts, mentors, or online resources to learn more about managing your finances effectively. This helps you gain knowledge, develop healthy financial habits, and make informed decisions about your money.

  • Four ‘must-dos and don’ts’ before flight takeoff

    Four ‘must-dos and don’ts’ before flight takeoff

    The Federal Government, on Wednesday, ordered Emmanson’s release from Kirikiri and withdrew charges against KWAM 1.

     Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo announced the decision on X. 

    This action preceded the unruly behaviour exhibited by the two individuals before the flight take-off.

    Keyamo said recent events in the industry concerning unruly behaviour of certain individuals are unfortunate, stating, lessons have been well highlighted for the travelling public.

    The controversy could have been avoided if the passengers had duly respected the precautions to follow before the flight took off.

    Travelling by air is an adventurous journey, but as much as the journey is controlled by the airline, there are still responsibilities that passengers must ensure they follow to avoid disrupting the flight or causing harm. It’s important to know the safety precautions before the plane takes off.

    Here are things you MUST DO before the flight takes off:

    1. Fasten your seat belt.

    This is the most effective safety precaution. Most modes of transportation always have to use a seatbelt during the journey, e.g, vehicles, buses, lorries, jets, planes, etc. This is essential as it ensures the safety of passengers on board. Passengers must fasten their seatbelts even if the seatbelt sign is turned off. Once the plane takes off, there’s a tendency for turbulence to take place, which makes the passenger vulnerable to harm.

    2. Switch off your phone

    While it’s good to stay in check with loved ones on the plane, it’s a must to either switch off your phone or put it on airplane mode. This is to avoid distortion with the airline communication network. The case of Emmanson would have been avoided if her phone had been duly switched off. 

    The pilot would always announce to the passengers what they needed to know and do. To ensure safety, passengers must respond attentively to the announcement. So, it’s either the phone is switched off or it’s placed on airplane mode. But, if the pilot says airplane mode, then so it should be. The unruly passenger, Emmanson, had placed her phone on airplane mode but the instruction to switch off the phone wasn’t followed, and that caused a dispute between her and the crew members, which led to physical assault.

    Here are MUST- DONT’S before flight take off:

    1. Boarding with Liquid Substance

    Passengers are not expected to take any form of liquids into the plane, such as water, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, etc. This is strictly flagged off before entering the plane. This compromise got Kwam 1 placed on a one-month ban. He was accused of carrying a prohibited flask believed to contain alcohol, spilling its contents on personnel, and later walking onto the aircraft’s tarmac, allegedly blocking the plane from taxiing.

    Read Also: FG shuts Enugu airport runway; Air Peace, others suspend flight

    However, some airlines would share liquids and snacks with the passengers during the flight. 

    2. Boarding with weapons

    Weapons are flagged off immediately during security checks to ensure the safety of everyone. As such, passengers must not board the plane with weapons, such as knives, explosives, firearms, or any other dangerous objects.

    This is to prevent unforeseen threats that may endanger lives.

  • FULL LIST: 10 ways to avoid visa rejection

    FULL LIST: 10 ways to avoid visa rejection

    Visa applications can be complex and highly scrutinized, with even minor oversights leading to rejection. Whether you’re applying for a tourist, student, work, or immigration visa, embassies and consulates assess a wide range of factors, from your documentation and financial standing to your travel intentions and ties to your home country. Understanding the common pitfalls and knowing how to avoid them is crucial to improving your chances of a successful outcome.

    This guide outlines ten essential strategies to help you minimize the risk of visa denial. Backed by best practices and real-world insights, these tips cover everything from preparing the right documents to handling interviews with confidence.

    By following these steps carefully, applicants can approach the visa process with greater clarity, preparation, and peace of mind.

    1. Apply for the right type of visa

    Each visa category comes with specific eligibility requirements. Applying under the wrong category — for example, using a tourist visa to seek work — will likely lead to denial.

    What to do:

    Research visa categories thoroughly.

    Ensure your purpose of travel aligns with the visa type.

    Consult official immigration websites or licensed consultants if you’re unsure.

    2. Submit a complete and accurate application

    Even minor errors or missing fields in your application can trigger a rejection.

    What to do:

    Fill out every field carefully.

    Double-check for spelling, consistency, and accuracy.

    Use the latest official application form from the embassy’s website.

     3. Provide strong proof of financial means

    Embassies need assurance that you can support yourself financially during your stay.

    Read Also: Cubana Chief Priest pleads for US visa amidst Davido’s wedding buzz

    What to do:

    Include 3–6 months’ bank statements.

     Submit pay slips, tax returns, or a sponsor’s letter (if applicable).

     Ensure the documents match your travel plans in terms of cost.

     4. Show clear ties to your home country

    Proving that you have strong reasons to return home helps reduce fears of overstaying.

    What to do:

    Submit job letters, business licenses, or proof of enrollment.

    Include property ownership, family ties, or ongoing commitments.

    Be transparent about your situation.

    5. Provide a detailed travel Itinerary

    A vague itinerary can raise doubts about the real purpose of your visit.

    What to do:

    Include flight reservations, accommodation bookings, and daily plans.

    Mention key destinations and activities.

    Keep your plans realistic and consistent with your financial capacity.

     6. Avoid fake or forged documents

    Submitting forged papers can lead to immediate rejection and long-term bans.

    What to do:

     Only use genuine, verifiable documents.

     If something is missing, explain it in a cover letter.

     Honesty is far better than deception.

    7. Prepare for your visa interview (if applicable)

    Your conduct and answers during the interview can heavily influence the decision.

    What to do:

     Practice answering common visa questions.

     Stay calm, be honest, and answer confidently.

     Dress professionally and be punctual.

    8. Ensure your passport is valid and clean

    An expiring or damaged passport may result in your application being rejected.

    What to do:

     Make sure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity.

     Ensure it has 2–3 blank pages for visas and stamps.

     Avoid submitting a passport with suspicious stamps or alterations.

    9. Don’t overstate or understate your plans

    Inconsistencies between your forms and verbal answers can cause red flags.

    What to do:

     Be straightforward about your travel purpose.

     Don’t exaggerate or downplay your intentions.

     Keep all documents and statements consistent.

    10. Follow country-specific requirements closely

    Each country has unique rules, required documents, and processing steps.

    What to do:

     Visit the official visa or immigration website for the most current guidelines.

     Stick strictly to their document checklist.

    Stay informed about any updates or travel advisories.

  • Nine cheapest countries to buy iPhone 16 in 2025

    Nine cheapest countries to buy iPhone 16 in 2025

    A recent global price comparison has revealed the countries where Apple’s latest iPhone 16 (base model, 128 GB) is most affordable. Factors such as local manufacturing, tax policies, and market competition play a major role in determining prices.

    Here are 9 cheapest countries to buy iPhone 16 in 2025

    1. China

    China tops the list as the cheapest place to buy the iPhone 16. Local assembly reduces logistics, shipping, and import costs, enabling Apple to offer lower prices.

    2. Japan

    Japan offers some of the lowest iPhone prices in the world, continuing a trend seen across several Southeast Asian markets.

    3. United States

    With no import taxes, pre-tax pricing, and direct Apple sales without retailer markups, the US remains a cost-effective market for buyers.

    4. Hong Kong

    Hong Kong’s lack of sales tax or VAT, minimal import duties, and competitive pricing make it a popular destination for international shoppers.

    5. Thailand

    Thailand is another Asian country where the iPhone 16 is relatively inexpensive, benefiting from favourable regional pricing strategies.

    6. Malaysia

    Lower prices in Malaysia are driven by favourable exchange rates, minimal taxes, and strong competition among electronics retailers.

    Read Also: Why the Smartest Nigerians Are Racing to Buy iPhone 16 — And only from iStore and iConnect

    7. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

    The UAE offers tax-free shopping for tourists, low import duties, and competitive pricing aimed at attracting global buyers.

    8. South Korea

    Intense competition from domestic smartphone brands like Samsung pushes Apple to maintain competitive pricing in South Korea.

    9. Australia

    Australia also ranks among the cheaper markets for the iPhone 16, thanks to favourable retail pricing and stable supply.

  • FULL LIST: 29 countries to phase out passport stamps

    FULL LIST: 29 countries to phase out passport stamps

    Your next international trip to Europe may not come with a passport stamp marking which country or countries you visited.

    Starting October 12, 29 European countries will begin replacing traditional passport stamps with a new Entry/Exit System (EES), which is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026.

    This digital system is designed to make border checks faster and more efficient by recording the entry and exit of non-European travelers using fingerprint and facial recognition data.

    The 29 countries involved are part of the Schengen Area, a zone in Europe where internal border controls have been mostly eliminated, allowing for the free movement of people among member countries. The Schengen Area currently includes 25 EU member states and 4 non-EU countries.

    While travellers have historically moved between these countries with minimal passport checks, the EES will streamline the process further by providing self-service options and enabling travelers to submit their information ahead of time, cutting down time spent at border crossings.

    Read Also: NNPC sacks pump attendant, suspends manager over misconduct

    The biometric data collected will also help authorities identify individuals who overstay, use false identities, or abuse visa-free travel. Border officials and law enforcement will have access to this information to better manage security risks.

    Below is the full list of the 29 countries that will start phasing out passport stamps on Oct. 12 as the new EES is rolled out:

    Austria

    Belgium

    Bulgaria

    Croatia

    Czechia

    Denmark

    Estonia

    Finland

    France

    Germany

    Greece

    Hungary

    Iceland

    Italy

    Latvia

    Liechtenstein

    Lithuania

    Luxembourg

    Malta

    Netherlands

    Norway

    Poland

    Portugal

    Romania

    Slovakia

    Slovenia

    Spain

    Sweden

    Switzerland

  • 10 top skills for Nigerian youths to thrive

    10 top skills for Nigerian youths to thrive

    In a world where opportunities are rapidly shifting and traditional jobs are no longer guaranteed, the Nigerian youth must adapt to new realities. The future belongs to those who are skilled, innovative, and prepared to compete both locally and globally. With rising unemployment and an increasingly digital economy, the smartest path forward is to acquire in-demand skills that can open doors to financial stability, personal growth, and global relevance.

    Whether you are a secondary school leaver, a university graduate, or a self-driven entrepreneur, the right skill can take you from job-seeker to job-creator. Nigeria’s dynamic economy, bolstered by technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship is full of opportunities for those who are ready to seize them.

    Below are 10 high-potential careers and skillsets that every Nigerian youth should consider mastering for a more secure and prosperous future.

    1. Software development and programming:

    Nigeria’s tech industry is expanding rapidly, making software developers some of the most sought-after professionals. From building apps to developing software for businesses, this skill offers global employment opportunities and high earning potential. Platforms like GitHub, Udemy, and freeCodeCamp are great places to start.

    2. Digital marketing and content strategy:

    With businesses shifting online, digital marketing has become essential. Skills in SEO, social media management, email marketing, and content creation can help you work as a freelancer, join marketing agencies, or even promote your own brand.

    3. Cybersecurity:

    As digital systems grow, so do cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts are in demand to protect data and prevent online attacks. From government institutions to fintech startups, cybersecurity professionals are vital in ensuring digital safety.

    4. Data Analysis and Artificial Intelligence:

    Data analysts and AI specialists interpret large amounts of data to make informed decisions. In today’s world, where data is the new oil, learning how to analyze and utilise information is a high-value skill for both corporate jobs and tech startups.

    5. Healthcare and medical technology:

    Healthcare remains one of the most essential sectors in Nigeria. Careers in nursing, laboratory science, telemedicine, and medical diagnostics are both fulfilling and future-proof. With ongoing public health challenges, there’s a growing need for well-trained professionals in this field.

    6. Renewable energy and environmental sciences:

    As Nigeria tackles its power crisis, solar energy and other renewable solutions are gaining traction. Learning how to install solar panels or design sustainable energy systems positions you at the forefront of an industry with global support and investment.

    7. Agribusiness and food technology:

    Agriculture is Nigeria’s largest employer, but it’s now being transformed by technology. Skills in agritech, food processing, packaging, and distribution offer exciting, modern avenues for youth to profit from the land and innovate the food supply chain.

    8. Financial technology (FinTech) and blockchain:

    Nigeria’s FinTech sector is booming, with companies like Paystack and Flutterwave leading the way. Blockchain, digital wallets, and online banking are redefining finance. Learning how these systems work can lead to careers in product development, blockchain coding, or fintech operations.

    9. Creative Arts, media, and entertainment:

    Nigeria’s creative industry, Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion, and design is a global force. Skills in video editing, acting, directing, content creation, and graphic design are increasingly monetizable, especially with digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok empowering creators.

    10. Product Management and Business Development:

    Product managers oversee the creation and success of digital or physical products. They work with designers, developers, and marketers to ensure products meet customer needs. Business development experts, on the other hand, help organizations grow and reach new markets—essential for startups and SMEs.

    Gone are the days when a university degree alone guaranteed a bright future. In today’s world and especially in Nigeria’s dynamic economy, it is the right skillset and right career profession, not just the certificate, that determines your success.

    Youth who embrace these 10 in-demand skills and careers will not only rise above unemployment but will also shape the country’s future in entrepreneurship, innovation, and development. Whether you’re working for a multinational company or starting your own business, these skills can help you thrive.