Global payments firm Mastercard, in partnership with Jobberman, has convened a career fair in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of efforts to bridge the growing gap between job seekers and employers in Nigeria.
The event, held on Friday, brought together young professionals, recruiters, and industry stakeholders, amid concerns over rising unemployment and limited access to job opportunities across the country.
Speaking at the opening session, Head of Youth Engagement, Nigeria at Mastercard, Innih Ikhide, said the initiative aims to build a more inclusive employment ecosystem by equipping young people with the skills, exposure, and networks needed to succeed.
“We recognise that beyond skills, access remains a major barrier for many young Nigerians. This platform is about ensuring that young people are not just prepared, but also visible to the opportunities that exist,” she said.
Delivering a keynote address titled Unlocking Inclusive Opportunities for Talent and Thriving Enterprises, Olugbenga Omotola called on employers to rethink conventional hiring practices, warning that an overemphasis on academic qualifications continues to exclude capable candidates.
“Employers must begin to look beyond certificates and focus on potential, adaptability, and the willingness to grow,” he said, adding that building a competitive workforce requires investment in people rather than just credentials.
Also speaking, Country Head of Programmes at Jobberman Nigeria, Olamide Adeyeye, highlighted what he described as a “visibility gap” as a major challenge facing both job seekers and employers.
According to him, many qualified candidates struggle to connect with available opportunities, while employers often find it difficult to identify the right talent, underscoring the need for platforms that facilitate meaningful engagement.
