The Skills Nigerian Graduates Need to Attract Multinational Employers


With its large and youthful population, Nigeria remains a largely untapped market for businesses, despite its challenges. A prominent businessman once remarked, “Opportunities abound in Nigeria, and with the right market identification, there’s almost nothing legitimate that cannot yield significant success here.” This sentiment holds true not only for local entrepreneurs but also for multinational corporations (MNCs). Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest economy has drawn global giants like Shell, Nestlé, MTN, PwC, and Microsoft, among others, to establish operations in the country. These organizations are constantly in search of talented graduates to help drive their business goals. However, competition for these roles is fierce, and success requires graduates to possess specific, highly sought-after skills. Here’s a breakdown of the critical skill sets these MNCs require and practical steps Nigerian graduates can take to acquire them.

Technical and Industry-Specific Skills

MNCs value candidates with technical expertise tailored to their industries. For example, Shell Nigeria prioritizes graduates with skills in data analytics, petroleum engineering, and sustainability practices. Professionals with advanced knowledge of drilling techniques and renewable energy integration are particularly sought after as the industry pivots towards greener energy solutions. Similarly, Microsoft Nigeria looks for graduates proficient in programming languages like Python and JavaScript, cloud computing technologies such as Azure, and artificial intelligence development. The need for technical expertise is also evident in Dangote Group’s collaborations with MNCs, where project managers with knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies are in high demand. Thus, Nigerian graduates should pursue certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, or specialized courses in renewable energy and project management on platforms such as Coursera or Udemy. Gaining hands-on experience through internships in sectors like oil and gas or tech can also set them apart.

Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking

The ability to analyze situations and craft innovative solutions is indispensable for MNCs. For example, PwC Nigeria expects candidates in consulting and auditing roles to demonstrate critical thinking and proficiency with tools like Excel, Power BI, and Tableau. Similarly, Nestlé Nigeria seeks graduates applying for supply chain roles to have expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and predictive analytics, enabling them to optimize processes and reduce inefficiencies. These skills are crucial in roles that require strategic decision-making, such as financial analysts at Citibank Nigeria or operations specialists at KPMG Nigeria. Consequently, Graduates should engage in competitions such as PwC’s Case Study Challenge or the CFA Institute Research Challenge to hone analytical and problem-solving skills. Enrolling in Lean Six Sigma training or learning data visualization tools through free online resources can also boost employability.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

In today’s globalized workplace, effective communication and the ability to work in teams are non-negotiable. For example, MTN Nigeria, a telecommunications giant, requires graduates with excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially for customer-facing roles. Proficiency in English and one or more Nigerian languages can also be an advantage in engaging diverse customers. Similarly, Unilever Nigeria places a premium on storytelling and persuasive communication for marketing roles, alongside a solid understanding of digital marketing platforms like Google Ads. In the light of the foregoing, graduates can build their communication skills by joining public speaking organizations such as Toastmasters or participating in debate competitions. Volunteering for leadership roles in campus organizations can also foster teamwork and interpersonal skills. Additionally, enrolling in online courses on communication or digital marketing can enhance proficiency.

Digital and Technological Literacy

In the 21st century, being tech-savvy is a prerequisite for most jobs. For example, Google Nigeria demands familiarity with SEO, Google Analytics, and machine learning algorithms for roles in digital marketing and software engineering. KPMG Nigeria similarly expects candidates in audit and advisory roles to demonstrate expertise in data analytics tools such as Python, SQL, and Tableau. Beyond these, tech skills are also vital for roles in TotalEnergies Nigeria, where professionals in engineering and environmental management utilize advanced simulation and monitoring software. To be competitive, graduates should take advantage of free courses on platforms like Google Digital Skills for Africa or LinkedIn Learning. Internships with tech-focused organizations or startups can provide practical experience while showcasing personal projects on platforms like GitHub can make them more competitive.

Global Mindset and Cultural Awareness

MNCs operate across borders, making a global mindset and cultural sensitivity essential. Total Energies Nigeria, for example, values candidates who can effectively collaborate with international teams, while Deloitte Nigeria requires consulting professionals to have a strong understanding of global business environments and compliance standards. Similarly, IBM Nigeria seeks candidates adept at navigating multicultural settings, especially for roles in client relations and business development. Nigerian graduates can build these skills by participating in cultural exchange programs, pursuing study-abroad opportunities, or enrolling in online courses in international business and cross-cultural communication. Engaging with global communities on LinkedIn or professional forums can also broaden their perspectives.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

Fast-paced environments demand adaptability and a willingness to learn. For instance, Meta (Facebook) Nigeria seeks product managers who stay updated with trends like augmented reality and the metaverse. Similarly, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Nigeria values graduates who demonstrate the ability to quickly adapt to dynamic market conditions, particularly through its competitive management trainee programs. Hence, graduates should actively follow industry trends through webinars and journals, attend relevant conferences, and join professional communities online. Platforms like Coursera offer micro-credentials that allow learners to continuously update their knowledge and stay ahead in their fields.

Leadership and Teamwork

MNCs seek individuals with strong leadership potential and the ability to work collaboratively. For example, ExxonMobil Nigeria emphasizes teamwork in engineering and safety roles, where collaborative efforts directly impact project success. Procter & Gamble (P&G) Nigeria, through its trainee programs, specifically looks for candidates who demonstrate leadership capabilities during university group projects or extracurricular activities. Consequently, graduates should take part in leadership development workshops or lead student organizations. Participating in team-based extracurricular activities, such as sports or community service, can help build teamwork skills.

Final Thoughts

To attract multinational employers, Nigerian graduates must go beyond academic excellence and build a robust portfolio of skills tailored to industry demands. Whether through targeted certifications, practical experiences, or extracurricular engagements, they can align their competencies with the expectations of global giants like Shell, Microsoft, and PwC. By actively seeking opportunities for growth and demonstrating readiness to contribute meaningfully, graduates can position themselves for success on the global stage.

@S.B Adams writes from Gombe State

References

Shell Graduate Program: Shell Nigeria

Microsoft Careers: Microsoft Nigeria

PwC Career Insights: PwC Nigeria

Google Digital Skills: Google Africa


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