Jobberman, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, recently hosted its annual Lagos Career Fair, focused on connecting young Nigerians with opportunities in the country’s flourishing $4.7 billion creative economy. The event, held at the Daystar Christian Centre in Ikeja, brought together over 1,600 aspiring creatives, employers, and industry leaders under the theme, ‘Innovation and Creativity: Catalysts for Opportunities’.
The creative economy, which includes sectors like film (Nollywood), music (Afrobeats), fashion, and digital media, is a major pillar in Nigeria’s drive to diversify away from oil dependency. This sector is increasingly being recognised as a significant engine for job creation, economic growth, and for boosting Nigeria’s global soft power. By creating platforms for storytelling and innovation, it attracts both domestic and foreign investment, reshaping international perceptions of the country. Experts see the digital component, particularly mobile gaming, as a massive growth area, poised to inject even more life and money into the broader creative and tech ecosystem.
The fair was specifically designed to bridge the skills and opportunity gap for young talent. Olamide Adeyeye, Country Head of Programmes at Jobberman Nigeria, stressed the firm’s ambition. “Our goal at Jobberman is simple but profound: to connect talent to opportunity and transform potential into prosperity,” he explained, noting the fair was a necessary intervention for young creatives still facing barriers to entry.
The event featured masterclasses, panel sessions, and a massive job fair zone where over 90 employers conducted on-the-spot interviews. Chude Jideonwo, the keynote speaker, encouraged the participants to be bold and authentic, telling them, “Overtaking is now allowed,” and urging them to “build relationships and turn their frustrations into stories.”
The fair delivered immediate, life-changing results for some attendees. Valentine Okoh, a National Youth Service Corps member, was unexpectedly offered a job in operations after speaking with an employer. “I can’t believe this is happening. I didn’t even plan to be here,” he said excitedly. Another highlight was the “Pitch Yourself in 30 Seconds” contest, where finalist Ndu Grace secured a job offer on the spot. “This is proof that opportunities like the Jobberman Career Fair can truly change lives,” she stated.
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, affirmed the government’s support, saying, “Giving youths the platform to compete on a global scale is essential. Lagos State is committed to creating an environment where young creatives can thrive.”
Jobberman’s Head of Marketing, Babajide Anjorin, concluded that the event was more than just a fair, calling it “a movement connecting young Nigerians to meaningful opportunities in the creative economy.”
