12 Nigerian States Where Graduates Struggle to Find Jobs 

Graduates in Nigeria face significant challenges in finding jobs. While several factors contribute to the high unemployment rate, certain states present greater difficulties for job seekers to find jobs due to economic instability, low industrial activity, and ineffective government policies.

In this article, our focus is on the Nigerian states where graduates struggle to find jobs, as well as what you can do to improve your chances of securing employment.

We use data from the National Bureau of Statistics to check each state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the number of companies in each state reported by businessList, and job vacancies opportunities posted by Jobsregion & other jobs board platforms.

Yobe 

Number of Companies – 38 
IGR – ₦11,194,721,282

Yobe’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and small-scale trading, which is often subsistence-based and unable to absorb the growing number of graduates. The state also faces security challenges due to insurgency, discouraging investments and industrial growth.

As a result, many graduates are forced to either leave the state or settle for farm cultivation or underemployment.

APPLY: Jobs in Yobe State

Kebbi 

Number of Companies – 40 
IGR – ₦11,737,075,709

Though Kebbi is known for its agricultural potential, particularly in rice production, the state has not seen substantial industrial growth. The economy remains largely rural, and while agriculture provides jobs, it does not accommodate the skill sets of most university graduates. With only 40 registered companies, job opportunities in the private sector are limited, leaving many graduates unemployed or underemployed.

APPLY: Jobs in Kebbi State

Taraba 

Number of Companies – 73 
IGR – ₦10,869,178,343

Taraba’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, but the sector lacks the industrialization needed to create sufficient job opportunities for graduates. The state also faces ethnic and communal conflicts, which deter investors and limit economic growth. With only 73 companies operating in the state, graduates often struggle to find meaningful employment, forcing many to migrate to other states in search of better opportunities.

APPLY: Jobs in Taraba State

Borno 

Number of Companies – 119
IGR – ₦19,454,028

Borno has been severely affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, leading to the destruction of infrastructure and businesses. The state’s economy is agrarian, but insecurity has crippled its growth. With only 119 companies operating in the state, job opportunities for graduates are scarce, forcing many to either leave or settle for low-paying jobs.

APPLY: Jobs in Borno State

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Zamfara

Number of Companies – 56
IGR – ₦22,162,590,810

Zamfara has been in the news for security challenges, which have significantly affected the economic activities of the state. Due to ongoing issues with banditry and kidnappings, businesses have shut down, and companies are reluctant to invest in the state. As a result, it has led to a decline in job opportunities for graduates, particularly in private sector-driven industries.

APPLY: Jobs in Zamfara State

Gombe 

Number of Companies – 79 
IGR – ₦15,179,050,180

APPLY: Jobs in Gombe State

Sokoto 

Number of Companies – 103
IGR – ₦17,961,334,445

APPLY: Jobs in Sokoto State

Adamawa 

Number of Companies – 115
IGR – ₦17,066,189,975

APPLY: Jobs in Adamawa State

Katsina

Number of Companies – 112
IGR – ₦122 26,956,610,135

APPLY: Jobs in Katsina State

Bauchi

Number of Companies – 152
IGR – ₦30,584,925,750

APPLY: Jobs in Bauchi State

Ebonyi

Number of Companies – 184
IGR – ₦21,651,524,675

APPLY: Jobs in Ebonyi State

Jigawa

Number of Companies – 22
IGR – ₦27,536,191,163

APPLY: Jobs in Jigawa State

What You Can Do to Improve Your Chances of Securing Employment

Here are some actionable strategies to improve your employment prospects:

Relocate to States with Better Job Opportunities

Consider moving to states with thriving economies and more job openings. Lagos, Kaduna, Rivers, and Abuja are notable for their bustling industries and diverse opportunities. Research the job market in these areas and prepare for the transition by saving funds and securing temporary accommodation.

Upskilling for Remote Jobs

The global shift toward remote work opens doors for graduates in tech and digital fields. Invest in learning in-demand skills like software development, digital marketing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analysis. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses to help you stay competitive in the job market.

Networking with Companies in Your State

Build connections with professionals working in companies located in your state. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and leverage LinkedIn to expand your network. Networking can lead to referrals, internships, or even job offers.

Consider Self-Employment

If traditional employment remains elusive, explore entrepreneurship. Identify gaps in your local market and start a business that meets those needs. Whether it’s agriculture, e-commerce, or service-based ventures, self-employment can provide financial stability and independence.

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