L–R: Olamide Adeyeye, Country Head of Programmes, Jobberman Nigeria; Oladoyin Kolawole, Senior Strategy Consultant, Jobberman Nigeria; Dr Olugbenga Omojola, Managing Partner, First Excelsia Professional Services; Mr Oke Paul Adegboye, Director, National Directorate of Employment (NDE); Ahmed Alaga, Head of Programmes, Impact & Partnerships, TATC; Innih Ikhide, Head of Youth Engagement & Learning, Jobberman Nigeria; Babajide Anjorin, Head of Marketing, Jobberman Nigeria in Ibadan recently
By Peace Udugba
The importance of effectively linking job seekers with employers has been identified as a critical driver of Nigeria’s labour market efficiency and overall economic development.
The Country Head of Programmes at Jobberman Nigeria, Olamide Adeyeye, made this known on Friday during the Ibadan Career Fair organised by Jobberman Nigeria in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
She noted that the initiative was designed to equip youths, job seekers, and early-career professionals with the right information, skills, and tools needed to successfully navigate the labour market and corporate environment.
Adeyeye disclosed that Jobberman Nigeria has spent the past six years partnering to train and empower millions of Nigerian youths. She reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to helping more people secure meaningful employment, improving employer-employee trust, and fostering a more sustainable economy.
She emphasised that strong partnerships, supported by strategic government policies, are essential to building an attractive and productive labour market capable of reducing unemployment and easing economic pressure.
Delivering the keynote address titled “Unlocking Inclusive Opportunities for Talent and Thriving Enterprise,” Dr. Olugbenga Omojola described Nigeria’s labour market as resilient and filled with opportunities. However, he stressed that these opportunities require intentional preparation rather than mere availability.
According to Omojola, the gap in today’s workforce is no longer between education and employment, but between knowledge and the ability to apply it creatively. He added that employability is driven by a combination of knowledge, skills, and attitude.
“Employers who will succeed in today’s rapidly evolving business environment are those who invest in their workforce, build strong workplace culture, and prioritise inclusion,” he said.
He further identified three key factors for unlocking job and business opportunities: understanding market trends, intentional positioning, and proactive engagement with professionals and recruiters.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Dr. Oke Paul Adegboye, commended Jobberman Nigeria and the Mastercard Foundation for organising the career fair.
He highlighted ongoing government efforts to create employment opportunities for youths in Oyo State.
The event featured a variety of activities, including interactive panel sessions, fireside chats, business pitch competitions, and employer showcase sessions, alongside entertainment segments.
Organisers also ensured inclusivity by providing a nursery for nursing mothers and accessibility support for persons with disabilities, including sign language interpreters and access ramps.
Participants expressed satisfaction with the event. One attendee, Princess Franklin, praised the panel discussions and speed pitch sessions, noting that she gained valuable insights on improving CV visibility to recruiters.
Another participant, Kadijat Bakare, said the fair broadened her understanding of career opportunities and workplace expectations.
Overall, the career fair underscored the ongoing commitment of Jobberman Nigeria and the Mastercard Foundation to bridging the talent gap and supporting the evolving world of work.
