A young male nail technician, Uche Chukwu, says he makes between N96,ooo and N120,000 monthly from rendering pedicure and manicure to women.
Chukwu in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Abuja on Wednesday said he was not ashamed of engaging in a job traditionally dominated by women.
He explained that he ventured into the business out of passion and the desire to earn a living, adding that in a day he makes between N4, ooo and N5, 000.
“I am interested in the job because I love it. I don’t see anything wrong in a man doing it. So long as it puts food on my table, I see no reason why I shouldn’t do it.
“I fix nails, lashes, shave eyebrows, and lock dreads. This job helps me solve one or two problems, and for now, I am okay with it,” he said.
He said that aside being a nail technician, he was also a musical artiste and using the beauty business to support his music career.
Chukwu used the opportunity to appeal to the government and well-meaning Nigerians to create avenue of reaching out to Nigerian youths with passions for business with a view to assisting them, adding that this would help curb high level criminal activities in the country.
“For instance, if I can get any assistance from the government, I will really appreciate it. This business is helping me, though my passion is music, and I’m doing this to support that dream.
“Most youths may have passions for business but if there’s no financial assistance, it will be difficult to go into such business.
“So, I am appealing to the Federal Government to come to our aid, especially those of us at the grassroots so as to discourage most of us from involving in crimes,” he added.
He also advised Nigerian youths to pursue any legitimate work they find passion in, regardless of societal stereotypes.
“Whatever you believe you can do, just go for it. Don’t mind what people says as long as you know why you’re doing it, keep pushing,” he said.
Some of his female clients expressed support and admiration for his work, ethic and resilience.
One of them, Blessing Moses, said she had no issue patronising a male nail technician and encouraged more young men to consider such trades.
“He is doing a good job and earning an honest living. It’s better than going around robbing people,” she said.
Another client, Mercy Ekpe, said she enjoys patronising Chukwu as a way of encouraging him to stay focused and avoid crime.
Similarly, Patricia Ene commended him for his courage and determination to break gender norms in his line of work.
“He is making a difference and showing that hard work has no gender. I really admire his courage,” she said.
