RismadarVoice Reporters, February 7, 2026
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, has approved automatic employment for the overall best graduating students of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU), Katsina, upon the completion of their National Youth Service Corps.
The Governor announced the decision on Saturday while speaking at the university’s 14th convocation ceremony, where he was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration.
Radda said the policy was aimed at rewarding excellence and motivating students to pursue academic distinction.
“This is to reward excellence and encourage our students to strive for the highest standards in their academic pursuits,” the Governor said.
He directed the Head of Service to immediately identify and process the employment of the beneficiaries, stressing that merit and academic excellence must be recognised and rewarded by government.
The Governor urged graduating students to uphold integrity, innovation and service to society, describing education as a powerful tool for addressing societal challenges.
“Be ambassadors of this university and of Katsina State. Use your knowledge to uplift communities and make a positive difference wherever you find yourselves,” he said.
As part of additional incentives to promote academic excellence, Radda announced a ₦100,000 cash award for the best graduating students across all departments, while the overall best graduating student will receive a brand-new vehicle.
He also approved the release of funds for programme accreditation to ensure the university meets national and international standards, as well as a salary increase for both academic and non-academic staff.
“Our government will continue to strengthen UMYU as a centre of learning, character and service to humanity,” the governor added.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Shehu Salihu Muhammad, disclosed that the institution has grown from about 1,000 students at inception to over 20,000 students, with 117 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes currently running.
He congratulated the 2,682 graduands, including 31 First Class degree holders, and commended the Governor for prompt payment of salaries and sustained support for the university.
Also speaking, the Chancellor of the university, Senator Ibrahim Ida (Wazirin Katsina), described the convocation as a celebration of hard work and perseverance, urging graduates to contribute positively to the society.
