Nigerians respond to a 27-year-old PhD graduate's protest against unemployment in Abuja

By Enitan Abdultawab

A 27‑year‑old Nigerian academic, Ayomide Alokun, has ignited extensive discussion on social media after demonstrating his unemployment in Abuja despite possessing several higher‑education qualifications.

In the video, Alokun holds a sign that lists his BSc and MSc in Political Science and a PhD in International Relations, while noting that he is still jobless.

He also mentioned that he earned national recognition during the COVID‑19 pandemic for distributing relief items while serving as a National Youth Service Corps member.

The clip has revived debate about unemployment, underemployment and the challenges confronting many Nigerian graduates, especially those with advanced degrees.

In response, some Nigerians questioned why the scholar continues to pursue government employment given his academic credentials.

One X user, @Reels_Xtra, commented: