Nigerian youths laud self-employment opportunities on social media

A cross-section of Nigerian youths have expressed delight over various income-earning opportunities on social media platforms which have made it possible for them to become self-reliant amidst escalating unemployment rate.

They spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2024 International Youth Day.

This year’s celebration is with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”, highlights the transformative power of digital technology in empowering youth.

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According to the youths, as the nation grapples with high rate of unemployment, the social media space has become an office without walls, where every creative and passionate person can make something for himself.

They shared how the advent of different social media platforms has made it easier for them to showcase their various skills, with little or no capital, to sustain a decent lifestyle.

Victor Adeosun, Project Manager at Buypower Pass said the social media space offers unlimited marketing space for his brand.

“As a creative, I can reach any audience through social media space for business opportunities and the reach is unlimited.

“I can advertise my business to people in the UK US, Pakistan and anywhere else.

Akoja Olamide, a student and Web Designer said : “Through social media, I have been able to meet new people and make connections that can aid my journey to being self-reliant.

“Social media is a tool that allows me share my own stories with the world in the way I want and It is like a canvas that I get to paint and guide people’s perception of me.

Also, Odushile Omodolapo, a corps member who is into Crypto currency business, said : “For someone like me, that makes money on crypto,I follow relevant accounts on Twitter, Discord and telegram to get updates.

“I remember I got $140 from a twitter giveaway I came across from an account I was following., besides that, there are other small freebies I have gotten.”

Elisha Gideon, a brand strategist said : “ I try very to connect with like-minded individuals and professionals to build relationships that can lead to collaborations or job opportunities on social media.

“I engage in activism, I use social media to raise awareness about social issues.

“I also follow organizations that provide educational content, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs tailored for youth.

”Even though I have never gotten a grant before but I hope one day I will.

READ ALSO: Int’l Youth Day: Embrace potentials in technology, CAN urges youths

In the same vein, Blessing Anolaba, a Development Communications Expert, shared insights on how youth can explore opportunities on social media.

He said with the advent of social media, there are now job titles like, brand influencers, social media commentators, network marketers, and bloggers, among others.

“The Gen Z generation, even a bit of millennials and generations to come, should not have any excuse to be poor because there are lot of platforms available now.

“The fact that you own a smart phone, you should be able to maximize it, so the youths can actually utilize social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter for networking and collaborations.

“Platforms like youtube, Linkedin learning as well Instagram provide access to a certain level of learning and skill development.

“You can promote your businesses online; connect to potential buyers if you know how to maximize those platforms,” she said.