Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has urged Nigerian youths to shift their focus from conventional academic paths to emerging sectors like space technology, which he described as a promising route to economic empowerment.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, the governor made the call at the conclusion of a five-day intensive space technology training for 200 young people—primarily from Cross River. The program was organized by Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NIGCOMSAT).
Governor Otu noted the increasing difficulty in the job market, where even individuals with advanced degrees like Master’s and PhDs are struggling to find employment. “It’s painful to see graduates, even those with higher degrees, end up driving taxis or relying on their parents well into their 30s and 40s,” he lamented.
He encouraged the youth to look beyond academic qualifications and embrace practical, forward-looking skills that align with global technological trends and can create real economic value.
“I’m encouraged to see young people embracing technical skills that can immediately open doors to income and productivity. Life is about being useful. While academic degrees are commendable, it’s crucial to also pursue skills that offer quicker financial returns when traditional job opportunities fall short,” he said. “This kind of training is exactly what our state needs.”
The governor expressed gratitude to NIGCOMSAT for offering the hands-on training, which he said will help participants build alternative, sustainable livelihoods.
In her address, NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Jane Egerton-Idehen, emphasized the growing importance of satellite technology for national development and global competitiveness. She said the training was part of a broader federal initiative to grow a skilled local workforce in space and satellite technologies.
She revealed that similar programs have already been conducted in other South-South states as part of efforts to expand access to modern technological tools and knowledge.
Egerton-Idehen highlighted that the 200 participants were trained in the installation and maintenance of Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs)—a crucial skill for deploying satellite-based internet connectivity in underserved areas like schools, hospitals, and rural communities.
“These youths now possess marketable skills that make them employable and entrepreneurial. They can immediately begin offering services in the digital economy,” she noted.
She also announced that all 200 participants would be enrolled into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme, which provides mentorship, access to funding, and support to help them commercialize their skills and innovations.
According to her, the government is laying the foundation for Nigeria’s future in space technology, and plans are underway to launch a large-scale space tech initiative in the South-South within the next two months.