Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina has offered a job to Sham’unu Ishaq, a first-class graduate from Umaru Musa Yar’adua University. This decision follows a viral video showing Ishaq selling sachet water on the streets to survive.

Ishaq, who graduated in July 2023 with a Bachelor of Science (Education) in Biology, shared his struggles in the video. Despite his top academic performance, he had been unable to secure a job and had to turn to hawking sachet water to support his family. His story caught the attention of many, highlighting the challenges that many young graduates face in finding employment.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula, confirmed the job offer on Friday. Governor Radda expressed his commitment to recognizing academic excellence. In line with this, he had also offered jobs to outstanding graduates from Isah Kaita College of Education in October 2024, and earlier in May 2024, nine first-class graduates from Umaru Musa Yar’adua University were given direct employment after their convocation.

Ishaq’s story has sparked a wider conversation about the high unemployment rates among Nigerian graduates. Governor Radda’s move to offer immediate employment is seen as a positive step in supporting educated youth and addressing the unemployment crisis.

This development is a reminder that while many graduates achieve academic excellence, the lack of job opportunities remains a significant challenge. Governor Radda’s initiative may inspire other leaders to take similar actions to support the youth in their communities.