1. Prevalence of Unemployment) Unemployment in Nigeria remains a significant national challenge, affecting economic stability and social progress. Unemployment refers to the situation where individuals who are willing and able to work cannot find gainful employment. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria recorded a 5.0% unemployment rate in Q4 2023 under the new methodology. However, youth unemployment and underemployment remain high. Regionally, the North-East and North-West record higher unemployment due to insecurity, while the South-West and South-South fare better due to industrial activity. Despite over 500,000 graduates produced annually from Nigerian universities and polytechnics, job opportunities remain grossly inadequate. 2. Causes of Unemployment Several factors may be contributing to rising unemployment in Nigeria. These include a mismatch between academic training and industry demands, poor policy implementation, corruption, insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to credit facilities for entrepreneurs. Also, the overdependence on white-collar jobs leaves vocational and entrepreneurial sectors underutilized. 3. Effects of Unemployment High unemployment rates breed poverty, insecurity, brain drain, and increased crime rates. Young, energetic Nigerians who should contribute to economic growth are left idle, leading to frustration and social unrest. It also affects national productivity, reducing Nigeria’s competitiveness on a global scale. 4. Recommendation To tackle unemployment innovatively, the federal government should identify all academic courses offered in Nigerian institutions and launch a national competition. This contest should require graduates from each course to submit a blueprint on how employment can be created within their discipline. The top five submissions per course should be selected and funded for implementation. This approach will promote creativity, reduce overdependence on government jobs, and stimulate industry-specific job creation. Empowering graduates to think as job creators, not just job seekers, is essential for a sustainable solution to unemployment in Nigeria. #CareConnectCares #NigeriaUnemployment #YouthEmpowerment #InnovationForJobs