AWKA, Anambra – Nelson Okafor, a 26-year-old carpenter from Anambra, has proven that pursuing skilled trades can lead to remarkable success. Okafor, the CEO of Carpenterway, recently shared his journey and advice for young Nigerians looking to forge their own path.
Okafor emphasized the importance of embracing the “dignity of labor,” particularly at a time when fraud has become all too common among the youth. He challenged young people to resist the “Japa syndrome” and consider alternative routes to achievement beyond white-collar jobs.
“No matter how unattractive a profession may seem, you can make a lot of money from it if you develop the necessary skills and dedication,” Okafor said during a seminar for aspiring entrepreneurs in Awka.
Drawing from his own experiences, Okafor recounted handling an interior design project worth over N200 million. He attributes his edge to not just being an interior designer, but also a skilled carpenter who can personally execute the work rather than merely supervising.
“I am a carpenter first, and then I became a certified interior designer,” Okafor explained. “This dual expertise allows me to deliver projects more efficiently than regular interior designers who often just direct the work.”
Okafor’s message to Nigerian youth is clear: use your intelligence to hone practical skills rather than engage in fraud. He encourages young people to learn from industry veterans and embrace innovative approaches to their craft.
While Okafor admits there were early doubts and discouragement, he persevered, building a robust company structure that allows him to take breaks without disrupting operations. His story serves as an inspiring example of the rewards that can come from embracing skilled trades.
