Creating Entrepreneurs via Social Media Platforms and Employment Generation in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper explores the potential need and benefits inherent in the use of social media as an instrument for creating entrepreneurs and generating employment amongst youths in Nigeria given the high youth unemployment rate. 92 youths who are social media users selected through survey responded to structured questionnaire via Google forms. The data was analysed using statistical descriptive tools and Chi square test. Findings revealed that in Nigeria, social media can promote on-line trading and create a source of livelihood for youths though, the enormous potentials of doing business through social media platforms locally and internationally are fairly explored. Also, trading via social media significantly impact employment creation and such trading does not significantly increase profits and reduce cost of doing business. The study recommended a reliable, affordable telecommunication network and combined efforts of government and the private sector to facilitate online trading and training in ICT entrepreneurship skills.