Why Skills Matter More Than Degrees in 2026
The global job market is undergoing a fundamental transformation. For decades, a university degree was considered the golden ticket to career success. But in 2026, the landscape looks very different.
The Skills Revolution
Companies like Google, Apple, and IBM have already removed degree requirements from many of their job postings. In Nigeria, forward-thinking companies are following suit. What matters now is not where you studied, but what you can do.
This shift is driven by several factors:
- Technology evolves faster than curricula - By the time a university updates its syllabus, the tools and frameworks have already changed. Graduates often enter the workforce with outdated knowledge.
- The rise of remote work - Nigerian tech talent can now compete for global opportunities. International clients care about your portfolio, not your CGPA.
- Practical experience trumps theory - Employers want people who can solve real problems from day one, not spend six months learning on the job.
What This Means for You
If you are a young Nigerian looking to build a career, the message is clear: invest in skills. Whether it is through structured programmes like those offered by More Techies, online courses, or apprenticeships, the path to success is through practical, demonstrable ability.
The good news? Access to skills training has never been more democratic. You do not need to be in Lagos or Abuja. You do not need wealthy parents. You just need commitment and the right platform.
Taking Action
Start by identifying the skills most in demand in your area of interest. Build projects that showcase those skills. Join communities where you can learn from others. And most importantly, never stop learning.
The future belongs to the skilled, not just the credentialed.