Lagos Senator Spots a Warning Sign in the Job Market
Lagos Senator Wasiu Eshilokun just gave a blunt warning to young people in the Nigerian city: get ready to upskill or get left behind. He’s advising them to acquire AI skills, alongside digital know-how, if they want to stay competitive in the rapidly changing job market.
The Senator, representing Lagos Central, is not the first to sound the alarm on this issue. Experts have been warning for years that automation and AI will displace certain jobs, leaving workers without a safety net. It’s happening already in many industries, from manufacturing to customer service.
Avoiding the AI Skills Gap
The Senator’s advice is simple: get ahead of the curve by learning the skills that will be in high demand. In a world where AI and automation are increasingly taking over routine tasks, workers with the ability to analyze data, solve complex problems, and create innovative solutions will be the ones who thrive.
Eshilokun’s emphasis on digital skills is also a nod to the reality that many young people already have a basic understanding of technology. However, he’s urging them to take it to the next level by developing skills that can’t be easily automated, such as creativity and critical thinking.
The Future of Work in Lagos
The job market in Lagos is already feeling the impact of automation and AI. While the Senator’s advice is aimed at young people, it’s a warning that should resonate with anyone who wants to stay relevant in the workplace. By acquiring AI and digital skills, workers can future-proof their careers and remain competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
What this means is that young people in Lagos need to start thinking about their skills development now, rather than waiting for it to happen naturally. They need to take initiative and seek out training and education that will equip them with the skills they need to succeed in an AI-driven job market.
