Lagos is a city bustling with opportunities, yet many job seekers find themselves stuck in a frustrating cycle—applying for jobs on every job board known to man (and woman), parading the streets of Nigeria’s Silicon Valley with dirt-stained envelopes, and attending interviews for jobs that seem out of reach. The real problem? A mismatch between the skills employers need and the qualifications job seekers have.
A Paradox in the Job Market
A recent Nairametrics report highlighted a paradox in Lagos’ job market: thousands of job vacancies remain unfilled despite the high number of job seekers. Companies aren’t just looking for degrees; they need practical skills that drive business and economic growth.
According to the Lagos Economic Development Update (2025), an average of 2,837 job vacancies emerge monthly, yet 26% of job seekers lack both education and experience. Employers are struggling to find candidates with in-demand skills, leading to a stagnation in hiring and productivity.
But the good news? This problem isn’t without solutions. Verticul is stepping in to equip fresh graduates, entry-level professionals, and Corp members with future-proof skills, making them 5X more employable.
The Reality of the Skills Gap
Many entry-level professionals graduate with theoretical knowledge but lack hands-on experience in industry-relevant tools and strategies. As a result, thousands of roles remain unfilled—not because there aren’t enough job seekers, but because there aren’t enough job-ready candidates.
This challenge has real consequences such as:
- Employers struggling to find the right talent. Without skilled professionals, businesses face delays in expansion and innovation.
- Job seekers missing out on opportunities. Many graduates remain unemployed or underemployed despite their potential.
- Economic growth slowing. A workforce without the right skills limits business productivity and competitiveness.
While the Lagos government has launched initiatives like the Life Skills Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, private-sector-led upskilling initiatives are critical to bridging this gap. That’s where Verticul comes in.
How Verticul is Bridging the Skills Gap
Verticul is not just another learning platform; it’s a career acceleration community designed to equip young Africans with high-demand skills that employers are actively looking for. Through job-relevant, industry-driven courses, we are bridging the disconnect between education and employability. We are doing this in various ways that include;
1. Job-Ready Courses That Matter
We’re not just teaching random skills; we’re curating learning paths that directly increase employability. Some of our high-impact courses for young professionals include:
- The Graduates-in-Demand (GRIND) Program: Designed for students, Corp members, entry-level professionals, and job seekers, this course equips learners with career navigation strategies and skills required to stand out in the job market.
- The Job Interview Masterclass – Master the art of interviews, build confidence, and land your dream job with expert guidance.
- Artificial Intelligence 101: Artificial intelligence is transforming industries. This course helps learners leverage AI for productivity, automation, and decision-making.
- Cybersecurity Risk Management: This is a crucial course for cybersecurity enthusiasts that provides insights into Cybersecurity principles, risk management, and data protection.
- Excel Basics: With data analysis becoming a key business skill, Excel proficiency can make you stand out in Finance, Business, and Tech roles.
2. Strategic Partnerships for Workforce Development
Forward-thinking organizations recognize the value of equipping their employees with relevant skills in today’s job market, and some have chosen Verticul as the platform to upskill their workforce. Companies like Clan Africa & AltBank have enrolled their employees in our courses, ensuring they stay competitive and prepared for the evolving workplace.
We’ve also partnered with communities like the African Growth Tribe, granting scholarships that ensure community members get access to top-tier learning without financial barriers.
3. Making Learning Accessible and Impactful
Upskilling doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. At Verticul, we focus on:
- Bite-sized learning formats to fit into busy schedules.
- Expert-led trainings to keep learners ahead of market trends.
- Hands-on projects that provide real-world experience.
The Path Forward: The Future of Work Starts with You
The skills gap in Lagos, and Nigeria at large, is a challenge—but it’s one that can be solved. As businesses seek top talent, young people must step up to meet market demands.
The job market is evolving, and staying ahead means investing in the right skills today. Fresh graduates, Corp members, and entry-level professionals can become 5x more employable by gaining in-demand skills. Verticul is here to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
Take the first step toward your future. Enroll in a Verticul course today and equip yourself with the skills employers are actively looking for. The future of work starts with you—are you ready?
Real Learners, Real Results
Don’t just take our word for it. See some of our learners who have transformed their careers with our courses
Be like Damilola, Mojeed and Faizat. Boost your career with a Verticul course and gain the skills that set you apart. Start now at goverticul.io!
