Hardship: A Nigerian “First-Class University Graduate” Begs for a Job and Hawks Water to Survive in Adversity

Sham’unu Ishaq, a first-class graduate from Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University in Katsina State, has turned to selling sachet water on the streets to survive due to lack of employment.

In a video clip shared by SaharaReporters, Ishaq explained that despite graduating with top honors on July 5, 2023, he has been unable to secure a job, leading him to resort to street hawking. The notification of results displayed in the video confirms that he holds a Bachelor of Science (Education) degree in Biology.

“I graduated and couldn’t find a job, so I started selling sachet water just to survive,” Ishaq said, describing the difficult circumstances in Katsina. “Here in Katsina, there’s hardly any opportunity to improve my life,” he added, painting a bleak picture of his reality.

Ishaq went on to describe how his earnings from selling sachet water are barely enough to cover basic necessities. “The income from this business isn’t sufficient. Most times, the little I make only allows me to eat; there’s nothing left to save,” he said.

Ishaq appealed directly to the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, for assistance. “As he can see, I’m a graduate with no job, and poverty is wearing me down,” he stated, highlighting the responsibilities he faces without a stable income.

Surviving on his meager income, Ishaq said he struggles to support his family and fulfill his obligations. “Right now, this sachet water business is all I have to rely on,” he explained.

Beyond seeking help from the state government, Ishaq extended his appeal to Nigerians across the country. “I need help, not just from the state government but from all Nigerians—whether from the south, east, north, or west. I just need help,” he said, emphasizing his openness to any form of employment.

With a clear willingness to work, Ishaq reiterated, “I’m a first-class graduate from Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina State. I graduated with no job, and now I hawk sachet water for survival. The income isn’t enough, as it only goes to cover food. I can’t save anything.” Ishaq concluded by urging Governor Radda to assist him, hoping for a way out of his current struggles.

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