Entrepreneurship Pays Better than White-Collar Jobs — Gov Umo Eno Tells Corps Members

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has encouraged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the state to focus on entrepreneurship rather than waiting for increasingly limited white-collar employment after completing their national service.

The governor made the call on Tuesday while declaring open the 2026 NYSC Corps Employers’ Workshop in Uyo. He was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerette Ekanem.

Eno urged the corps members to take full advantage of the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, describing it as a practical pathway to financial independence and sustainable wealth creation.

According to him, entrepreneurship now offers greater opportunities than many conventional office jobs, while also enabling young people to create employment for others.

“Today, being an employer of labour and an entrepreneur pays better than a white-collar job. Corps members should strive to become employers of labour rather than job seekers,” the governor said.

He noted that Nigeria’s growing population, coupled with limited economic opportunities, makes entrepreneurship an essential option for young people.

“Our population continues to grow while available resources remain limited. That is why I strongly commend the NYSC SAED programme, which is designed to equip young people with practical skills, helping them become self-reliant and employers of labour instead of depending solely on paid employment,” he added.

Governor Eno also commended corps members posted to Akwa Ibom for their dedication and exemplary service, encouraging them to remain committed throughout their service year.

He highlighted the recent recognition of a corps member who served at Comprehensive Secondary School, Okobo, and received the state’s Award for Excellence, describing the honour as evidence that diligence and commitment do not go unnoticed.

“I want to specially commend all corps members serving in Akwa Ibom State for their loyalty, commitment and dedication. Yesterday, a corps member who served at Comprehensive Secondary School, Okobo, received the State Award for Excellence. I hope this inspires other corps members serving in Akwa Ibom and across the country to continue giving their best,” he said.