Professor Selling Vegetables Urges Youths to Embrace Small Businesses

Professor Nasir Hassan-Wagini, a distinguished academic from the Department of Biology at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace small-scale businesses instead of waiting endlessly for white-collar jobs.

The professor, who grows and sells vegetables, gave this advice during a recent interaction with journalists at a local market in Batsari, Katsina State, where he was seen actively engaged in selling his farm produce.

From Academia to Agribusiness

Professor Hassan-Wagini explained that his interest in farming is deeply rooted in his background.

“I was born into a farming family, and I’ve been involved in agriculture and produce trading since my early years,” he said. “This is not new to me, but people started noticing because I was recently promoted to the rank of professor.”

Despite his academic status, he continues to run a vegetable business in the local market and believes his story should serve as an example to unemployed graduates across the country.

A Message to Nigerian Youths

He encouraged graduates with NCE, Diploma, and university degrees to shed the mindset that small businesses are beneath them.

“My message to Nigerian youths is simple: don’t be ashamed to start something small in your community. I am a professor of plant resources, and I still sell vegetables in the market,” he said.

He emphasized that one’s contribution to society holds more value than job titles.

“What really matters is the impact you’re making. Don’t stay idle at home just because you haven’t secured formal employment. Use your education along with vocational skills to build something for yourself,” he advised.

Promoting Self-Reliance Through Entrepreneurship

Professor Hassan-Wagini believes that farming and entrepreneurship can offer a sustainable pathway to self-reliance.

“Our young people should stop migrating in search of jobs. We have opportunities around us—farming, retail, and other ventures. These are legitimate paths to success,” he added.

He stressed that self-reliance is one of the most powerful keys to a fulfilling life and encouraged young people to combine formal education with practical skills.

A Community Perspective

One of his market neighbors, Malam Uzairu, praised the professor’s humility and positive influence in the community.

“He’s humble, trustworthy, and very easy to relate with,” Uzairu said. “Despite his position, he respects everyone here. We enjoy being around him because he treats us with kindness and respect.”