Is School a Scam? Do Degrees Still Pay in Nigeria?

In recent years, a growing number of Nigerian youths have begun to ask a daring question: “Is school a scam?” This sentiment, once considered rebellious, now reflects a deeper frustration with Nigeria’s economic realities and its formal education system.

Gone are the days when earning a university degree guaranteed job security, financial stability, or social mobility. Today, many graduates roam the streets jobless, underemployed, or stuck in jobs that pay barely above minimum wage. With the rise of tech skills, digital entrepreneurship, and alternative career paths, more Nigerians are wondering: Are degrees still worth it? Or is school becoming a scam?

Let’s unpack the facts—honestly, practically, and with the Nigerian context in mind.

Why Are Nigerians Losing Faith in Formal Education?

1. Graduate Unemployment and Underemployment

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s unemployment rate has remained stubbornly high, especially among youths and recent graduates. Thousands of degree holders now find themselves:

• Driving ride-hailing cars (Uber, Bolt)
• Running POS shops
• Selling on Instagram or in traffic
• Waiting endlessly for scarce government jobs

It’s no surprise then that many now ask, “What did I spend four years in university for?”

2. Outdated Curriculum

Nigeria’s education system has struggled to keep up with the rapidly evolving job market. Students often graduate with knowledge that is outdated, overly theoretical, and lacking in real-world application. While tech and innovation dominate global economies, many universities still teach without access to modern tools, labs, or industry mentors.

3. Rising Cost of Education

Whether in public or private institutions, the cost of tertiary education is increasing. Yet, the return on investment often seems low. Parents and students now question if the millions spent on school fees are better invested elsewhere—like starting a business or learning tech skills.

So, Is School Truly a Scam?

It’s tempting to jump to a blunt “yes,” especially when reality feels harsh. But let’s take a more balanced view.

No, school is not a scam. But it is not a guaranteed ticket to success either. What has changed is the value proposition of a degree. You now need to think of education as a tool—not a destination.

The Real Question Is: How Are You Using Your Degree?

Degrees alone no longer pay. But when paired with the right skills, mindset, and strategic action, they can still open doors. Here’s how:

How to Make a Degree Work for You in Nigeria

1. Add Practical Skills to Your Degree

Don’t stop at your certificate. Invest in digital skills that are in demand—such as:

• Coding / Web Development
• Data Analysis
• UI/UX Design
• Social Media Marketing
• Copywriting
• Financial Modelling
• Video Editing

These skills make you more employable and give you freelancing potential even while in school.

2. Network Relentlessly

In Nigeria, “who you know” still plays a big role. Attend conferences, internships, volunteering programs, LinkedIn events, and industry meetups. Build genuine relationships. Many jobs are filled via referrals, not job boards.

3. Don’t Wait for a Job—Create One

If you can’t find a job, create one. Leverage your education to start a business, consult, tutor, or provide services. Many successful Nigerian entrepreneurs started by monetizing what they knew best.

4. Target Opportunities Beyond Nigeria

Use your degree as a launchpad to remote jobs, international scholarships, or relocation opportunities. Many global employers still value degrees, especially when backed by extra certifications and strong portfolios.

Do Degrees Still Pay in Nigeria?

Yes, but not in the old-fashioned way.

Degrees still offer:

• Credibility in formal sectors like banking, law, education, and civil service
• Opportunities for further education and international migration
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities (if well taught and applied)

However, degrees alone are no longer enough. What pays now is what you can do, not just what you know. Skills, experience, adaptability, and creativity matter more than ever.

When School Feels Like a Scam

For many Nigerians, especially those from poor backgrounds, going to university feels like the only path out of poverty. Yet after graduation, they face a job market that doesn’t reward their sacrifice.

This is a systemic failure, not a personal one.

What we need is:

• Curriculum reform
• More vocational and digital skill integration
• Stronger industry-academic partnerships
• Entrepreneurial training within universities
• Mentorship and internship pipelines

Final Thoughts

So, is school a scam? Not exactly. But in Nigeria today, school without strategy is a risk. Education is still powerful—but only when combined with skills, networking, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

If you’re a student or recent graduate, don’t throw away your education—but don’t rely on it blindly either. Build skills. Stay adaptable. Be ready to innovate.

In this new Nigeria, those who thrive are not just the educated—but the strategic.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute career or educational advice. Readers should consider their personal goals and consult professionals when making decisions about education or employment.