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At the end of May 2026 on a random mid-day news spread wide and far on how a microfinance institution - Moniepoint's CEO was called out for saying that "there's a talent shortage in Nigeria."

In his words, there are over 500 roles, but no one to fill it.

As an employee, I can pretty much say I've been involved in almost every form of recruitment ritual - both local and international. From fill this application form to sending cover letter, making introduction video of 60 seconds; design graphic flyer that represent the brand, create a 7-day content calendar, task assessment, oral interview, AI pre-interview screening, physical & virtual interview, online CBT tests. I have passed through each of these numerous times.

To even top it all of, I once had a client from Europe who hired me as a Social Media Manager, contract was for $300 but I left midway, due to creative differences. Does this also means I'm part of the talent shortage?

This might be considered a rant, with no factual evidence to back it up but it's preposterous know that there are more than 1,000,000 Nigerians graduate from institutions every year (Universities, polytechnics, academic schools, etc). Over 6000+ are posted to a specific state for the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) program across 36 states of the country. Only 12% secure gainful employment. 60% to 80% lean on handiwork and crafts to make by, and the rest abscond abroad for a better life.

Attached is a screenshot of a job application form for the post of a Social Media & Content Manager from a company in Nigeria.

Total salary is N200,000 amount to $145 per month.

Is there a reason as to question why there's talent shortage in Nigeria when compensation package such as this prevails and majorly dominant?

It is clearly simple. Until a befitting individual talent responsibility in proportional to compensation is set, there'll continue to exist a talent shortage in the Nigerian job system.

Go online. Search through every remote and gigs platform, freelancing sites, contract roles and career forums, there's bound to be a Nigerian jobseeker profile on each one.

Yes, there is a talent shortage in Nigeria!