Prof. Nasir Hassan-Wagini of the Biology Department, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU), Katsina, who produces and sells vegetables, has advised students and youths to embrace small businesses rather than wait for white-collar jobs.
Hassan-Wagini gave the advice in an interview with newsmen at a weekly market in Batsari, Katsina State, where he sells his produce.
The professor said he was born to a farmer, grew up as a farmer, and went into production businesses at an early stage of life.
He said his story became popular after he was promoted to the rank of professor.
“My call to NCE, diploma, and degree graduates is that they should feel free to start small businesses in their communities instead of staying idle.
“I’m a professor of plant resources at UMYU. I want youths and students to look at me, know my rank and position, and see that I still engage in small businesses of this nature.
“That may clear their minds because many feel ashamed or too big to go into such types of small businesses.
“What matters is what you are contributing to society. So, stop staying at home doing nothing when you do not get a job, start with small businesses like this one.
“Our youths should stop going to other places looking for jobs. They should get into farming and other small businesses to become self-reliant.
“Self-reliance is key to a successful life. Try to merge your education with vocational skills for your own good,” he said.
One of his neighbours in the market, Malam Uzairu, said they enjoy staying with the professor in the market.
He described the professor as trustworthy, humble, and kind in his interaction with people.
“We respect him, and he respects us. In fact, he is a nice person who knows how to relate with all categories of people,” he said.
The price of a 100 kg bag of onion in the market is N65,000 and above, depending on quality.
A 100 kg bag of dried red pepper sells at N115,000 and above, 100 kg of dried tomatoes at N60,000 and above, while a 50 kg bag of fresh hot pepper costs N100,000 and above.
Our correspondent was told that in the next few months, farmers will start harvesting fresh tomatoes, red pepper, onions, and other produce.
Security in the area has improved, allowing business activities to thrive.
