NSASA Week 2025 introduced a Career fair

The NSASA Week 2025 Career Fair, themed “Beyond the Certificate: Building Skills and Career,” held on the 18th of November 2025 at the Social Sciences Seminar Room, brought together students, speakers, and professionals for a conversation on what truly drives success in today’s highly competitive world.

The event officially began around 11 AM and was anchored by Amaris, who handled the role of MC. The opening prayer was led by Ujata Gideon, followed by the national anthem and the University anthem.

Shortly after, the President of the association, Adetunji Samson, delivered a brief introduction to the program, setting the tone for the day. He also acknowledged the departmental executives, including Uthman Badmus, Oyindamola Afolabi, Ikumoluyi Adesewa, and others who were present to support the event.

Although the scheduled speaker, Miss Adesola Johnson, could not attend physically, her presentation was delivered through a voice note and it turned out to be one of the most impactful moments of the fair. Her message focused strongly on the realities of the 21st-century career landscape and the mindset students must develop if they hope to thrive beyond their certificates.

She emphasized that skills now carry people farther than certificates ever will, especially in a world where skill mismatch and global competition continue to widen. Miss Johnson reminded students that experience matters, and that early exposure through volunteering, internships, and hands-on involvement often determines how easily one transitions into the real world.

A major highlight of her talk was the emphasis on adaptability. She stressed that the world is moving faster than ever and professionals must learn to adjust quickly, manage people, and develop emotional intelligence. While AI is becoming a necessary tool, she urged students to prioritize human emotions, reminding them that empathy, communication, and social awareness cannot be replaced by machines.

Her message further touched on key career habits:

1. Work diligently, no matter how small the task.

2. Learn to communicate and present yourself well.

3. Be easy to work with and maintain professionalism.

4. Keep learning, the world won’t slow down for anyone.

5. Build meaningful relationships because opportunities often come through people.

6. Strengthen your online presence, especially on LinkedIn, to connect with experts in your preferred field.

Her closing point was on mastering one's mindset. A positive, disciplined mental orientation determines how far you will go, regardless of challenges in the economy or workplace.

The second keynote address was delivered by Mr. Ohireme Jacob Anthony, a sociologist, researcher, strategist, and founder of Scribe.NG and Tribe.NG. Anthony spoke on the power of values and leverage, explaining how relationships, friendships, and networks often shape career trajectories more than students realise. With experience in brand strategy, research, digital innovation, and academic mentorship, he encouraged students to be deliberate about personal growth and community building. His warm, relatable delivery made his session one of the most engaging moments of the fair.

The event transitioned into a vibrant panel session featuring a blend of alumni, creative entrepreneurs, and emerging professionals—including keynote speaker Anthony. The panelists included: Bolanle Amusa — UI alumna, founder of ZAANOIR Stitches, Immanuella — panel speaker known for her practical insights and student-centered approach. Other professionals and past NSASA leaders were also there.

Immanuella’s contributions brought a grounded and relatable perspective to the discussion. She spoke honestly about navigating challenges as a student, building soft skills, and taking advantage of small opportunities that eventually lead to bigger ones.

The fair also featured fun games and informal networking moments that helped students reconnect, laugh, and learn in a relaxed atmosphere. The presence of past NSASA presidents added a sense of continuity and the mentorship to the event. What held the program together was a shared message: Career success is built through intentional habits, relationships, adaptability, and continuous growth not certificates alone.

By the end of the day, students left with new motivation, clearer direction, and a more realistic understanding of what it takes to thrive beyond the university walls. The 2025 NSASA Career Fair reinforced what the association stands for: preparing students not just to enter the job market, but to excel in it with confidence, competence, and character.