By Usman Shuaibu
As thousands of students celebrated their academic achievements at the University of Abuja (newly renamed Yakubu Gowon University) recent convocation , the joy of the occasion was tempered by a sober call to action regarding Nigeria’s unemployment crisis.
Habibat Kikelomo Tunwase, a fresh graduate of Accounting, used her graduation platform to urge the Federal Government to prioritize job creation for the growing number of skilled graduates currently “roaming the streets.”
Tunwase argued that a degree alone is no longer enough in the modern economy.
She challenged government at all levels to systematically engage graduates in vocational training, regardless of their academic discipline, to foster self-reliance and create an environment where graduates can transition from job seekers to job creators.
“While we remain committed to our studies, the government must ensure there is a destination for our hard work,” Tunwase told newsmen at the University’s main campus.
The graduand’s father, Chief Dr. Wasiu Tunwase, the Otunba of the Yoruba community in the FCT, shared his daughter’s concerns. While pledging to sponsor Habibat’s Master’s degree to further her expertise, he appealed to the administration to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace.
“The management has done well in providing a secure and conducive environment for this convocation,” Chief Tunwase noted, “but the government must now fulfill its part by creating opportunities for these young minds to serve their country.”
The event was a family milestone, attended by her stepfather, Mr. Ibrahim Babalola Tunwase, and her mother, Mrs. Yetunde Tunwase.
They jointly advised the new accountant to remain focused and resilient, noting that while the labor market is challenging, a clear vision and determination remain the keys to achieving her professional ambitions.
