Can we have a real conversation today? Every year, brilliant young Nigerians graduate with First Class degrees — sleepless nights, sacrificed social lives, endless studying — and then walk into a country that barely notices. That needs to change. Here's what I believe our government owes first class graduates: 1. Automatic employment pathways. There should be a structured, transparent system that fast-tracks first class graduates into relevant government agencies, parastatals, or fully funded public sector roles. Excellence should be rewarded with opportunity — not more job hunting. 2. Funded postgraduate scholarships. Many of these graduates want to pursue Masters or PhD programs locally and abroad. Government should provide automatic full scholarships for first class graduates who wish to further their education. Investing in them is investing in Nigeria's future. 3. Startup grants and interest-free loans. For those who want to build, give them capital. A N2–5 million startup grant for first class graduates who present viable business plans could birth industries, not just companies. 4. National recognition. A public annual ceremony celebrating academic excellence — like we celebrate sports — would shift the culture. Let intelligence be aspirational. 5. Mentorship and industry placement programs. Link graduates to established professionals and companies for 6–12 month placements. Skills need environments to grow. Our best minds are leaving this country because they feel unseen. If we keep ignoring excellence, we'll keep exporting it. We can do better. We must do better. 🇳🇬
