News

Five Soft Skills Every Graduate Must Have In Today’s Job Market

Published

8 months ago

September 13, 2025

Editor

There is no doubt that graduating from university anywhere in the world is not a small feat but a major milestone.

However, securing a job in today’s competitive labour market, especially in a country like Nigeria, requires more than just a degree as employers now look for graduates who possess practical skills that can add value to their organisations from day one.

The workplace in today’s world is shaped by technology, globalization, and evolving business needs.

As a result, graduates must develop skills that go beyond academic knowledge to remain relevant and employable.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at five essential skills every graduate should have in today’s job market.

1. Digital literacy

The world has no doubt become a global village, and as a graduate, you cannot afford to be left behind. In almost every sector today, technology is at the centre of operations. From using productivity tools and managing data to adapting to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, digital literacy is a must-have for graduates.

Graduates who are familiar with digital platforms, social media, and online collaboration tools often stand out during recruitment. Being digitally literate also means being able to learn new software quickly, a trait employers value highly.

2. Communication skills

This is an important skill not just for graduates but for everyone. The importance of communication in navigating all aspects of life cannot be overemphasised. It remains one of the strongest predictors of workplace success.

As a graduate, you must be able to express your ideas effectively, both in writing and in speech. Good communication fosters teamwork, leadership, and strong professional relationships.

3. Critical thinking and problem-solving

Life is not a bed of roses, and there will always be challenges that require critical thinking to resolve. Employers want graduates who can analyse situations, think logically, and propose solutions rather than simply follow instructions.

In organisations, unexpected challenges arise frequently, and individuals who can make sound decisions under pressure are highly valued. Critical thinking also helps graduates evaluate information and avoid bias.

4. Adaptability and flexibility

If there is one lesson COVID-19 taught us, it is that nothing is certain. The pandemic proved how quickly industries can change. From remote work to automation, graduates must be adaptable to remain employable.

Adaptability means being open to new ideas, adjusting to different work environments, and learning new skills as industries evolve. Employers also value flexibility in graduates who can handle multiple roles or shift priorities as needed. Being adaptable often signals resilience, a quality highly sought after in uncertain job markets.

5. Emotional intelligence

While technical know-how is undoubtedly important, emotional intelligence is what often sets successful graduates apart. Emotional intelligence involves self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage relationships.

In workplaces where collaboration is key, graduates with strong emotional intelligence can work well with diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and even take on leadership roles earlier in their careers.
(TRIBUNE)

News

Transfer: Premier League Clubs Scramble For Dele-Bashiru

Published

5 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Editor

Lazio midfielder, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is a subject of interest from three Premier League clubs, according to Sky Sports.

Lazio reportedly rejected offers from Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth for the Nigeria international in January.

La Biancolesti are bracing for more interest in Dele-Bashiru ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports.

The 24-year-old has two years left on his contract with the Serie A club.

The attacking midfielder joined the Rome-based club from Turkish Super Lig outfit Hatayspor in 2024.

He has been a regular feature for Lazio this season.

News

Xenophobic Attacks: Nigerian Students To Picket MTN, MultiChoice, Other Businesses

Published

5 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Editor

The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS South-West Zone D, has announced plans to picket South African companies in Nigeria following the ongoing xenophobic attacks in the country.

DAILY POST reports that some Nigerians were recently killed in South Africa over the violent attacks.

A statement issued to newsmen by Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, Coordinator, NANS South-West, Zone D, said that the association is mobilizing to take decisive and lawful action by organizing peaceful picketing and mass advocacy against South African business interests operating in Nigeria.

“We categorically state that the continued targeting of Nigerians under any guise is unacceptable and must come to an immediate end.

“This will include major corporations such as MTN Group and MultiChoice Group. It is morally indefensible for businesses to thrive in an environment where the lives of Nigerians are protected, while Nigerians are subjected to fear and violence elsewhere.

“This contradiction will no longer be tolerated,” the statement said.

News

N5m, N10m Zero-interest Loans: SheVentures Opens Applications For Women Entrepreneurs

Published

7 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Editor

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has opened a new round of applications for its SheVentures proposition, offering zero-interest loans of up to ₦10 million to women entrepreneurs to ease access to working capital and support business growth.

The facility provides loans ranging from ₦500,000 to ₦5 million under a general category, and ₦5 million to ₦10 million for sector-specific businesses, with funding capped at up to 50% of an applicant’s average monthly turnover.

At the centre of the offering is a 0% interest rate, with all charges embedded in a transparent structure.

Repayment is structured over four or six months, allowing businesses to match obligations with their cash flow cycles.

Yemisi Edun, Managing Director and Chief Executive of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), said the initiative reflects a deliberate approach to inclusive growth.

“Inclusive growth requires access to capital and the right conditions for businesses to deploy that capital effectively.

“Women-led enterprises are critical to economic activity, yet they face structural barriers.

This intervention aims to help close that gap by providing financing that supports job creation, business expansion, and long-term sustainability for women entrepreneurs.”

“Access to affordable finance remains a major constraint for women entrepreneurs,” said Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo, Group Head, SheVentures and Impact Segments at First City Monument Bank (FCMB).

“By removing the cost barrier and offering quick, flexible funding, this zero-interest loan is designed to safeguard existing jobs, enable businesses to invest in growth initiatives, and foster resilience in challenging economic conditions.”

Women-owned businesses account for a significant share of Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises but continue to face high borrowing costs and limited access to credit.

Through these efforts, SheVentures tackles persistent financing gaps facing women-led businesses, combining targeted funding with broader support to empower women entrepreneurs, encourage business innovation, and enhance their ability to compete on a national scale.

Applications for the zero-interest loan are now open.Apply now.