Introducing the State of Student Work Report

We are pleased to announce the release of The State of Student Work Report, a comprehensive national study examining the economic realities of students in Nigeria today.

Over the past year, we surveyed more than 4,000 students across 55 institutions in 29 states. This report represents one of the most extensive efforts to document how Nigerian students are engaging with work, income generation, and financial responsibility while still in school.

Key findings include:

• Two-thirds of Nigerian students are currently working

• Many combine lectures with freelancing, paid employment, or startup activity

• 42% contribute financially to their families before graduation

The findings challenge long-standing assumptions about student dependency and delayed economic participation. They demonstrate that students are not simply preparing for the future economy, they are already active participants in it.

For policymakers, investors, educators, and ecosystem builders, this report provides evidence-based insight into a critical but often overlooked segment of Nigeria’s economic landscape.

For students, it offers formal recognition of their contribution, resilience, and agency.

The State of Student Work Report is available as a free download. You can now preorder your copy and receive it upon release.

We look forward to the conversations, policy shifts, and opportunities this data will help inform.