Oba Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, said Nigerian graduates lack the practical skills and knowledge required to meet industry needs [1].

The critique highlights a systemic failure in the national education system that leaves young professionals unable to transition from the classroom to the workforce. This misalignment threatens economic growth by creating a workforce that possesses academic credentials but lacks functional utility in professional settings [1].

Speaking Thursday, the monarch said there is a growing disconnect between academic curricula and the evolving requirements of the modern economy [2]. He said the current state of education has led to a "declining relevance of graduates produced by Nigerian tertiary institutions" [2].

According to Matemilola, the gap is not merely a lack of theoretical knowledge but a deficiency in the hands-on application of that knowledge. He said "many lack the knowledge and practical skills required to meet industry needs" [2]. This disparity forces employers to invest in extensive retraining or seek external talent to fill critical roles [1].

The Olowu's comments underscore a broader concern within Ogun State regarding the quality of higher education. By calling attention to the issue, the monarch is urging a shift toward vocational training, and industry-aligned certifications — a move that could potentially lower unemployment rates among the youth [1].

Matemilola said that for tertiary institutions to remain relevant, they must collaborate more closely with the private sector. Such partnerships would ensure that students are learning tools and techniques currently in use by employers rather than relying on outdated textbooks [2].

“"many lack the knowledge and practical skills required to meet industry needs"”

The Olowu's critique reflects a widespread tension in Nigeria's labor market where academic certification does not equate to professional competence. This skills gap suggests that the country's tertiary institutions are failing to adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, potentially stifling industrialization and increasing youth underemployment despite high graduation rates.