By Francis Dan
ABUJA — A public appeal from an unemployed graduate to Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan has gone viral, after the Kogi Central lawmaker responded with a simple directive in the comment section: “Send your CV.”
The exchange began on Facebook over the weekend when Siyaka Abdullazeez, a Biochemistry graduate of Bayero University Kano, addressed the senator in an open letter. He described years of political support, a kidnapping incident during service, and continued difficulty finding work despite his academic record.
Abdullazeez said his support for Akpoti-Uduaghan started during her time in the Social Democratic Party, SDP. According to him, he served as Assistant Financial Secretary for Achagana Ward and acted as a polling unit agent at Achagana Ward Unit 004 in the 2019 elections. He stated that he remained with her when she defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and campaigned for her during the 2023 senatorial race which she won.
“Distinguished Senator Natasha H Akpoti, my name is Siyaka Abdullazeez. I am writing this with humility and sincerity not out of entitlement but as someone who has genuinely supported you over the years,” he wrote.
The graduate said his challenges intensified after university. During his NYSC service in 2022, he was abducted by kidnappers. He said he survived and, after recovering, tried to get back on his feet. While in hospital, he attempted to contact the senator. He noted that her Personal Assistant, Bashir Haroon, was aware of his situation at the time.
Abdullazeez added that he also reached out to Bashir and to Hamza Lamisi during previous empowerment drives by the senator’s office, asking to be considered for any support, no matter how small.
“Unfortunately all my efforts proved abortive,” he wrote. “I have decided to make this appeal publicly not to embarrass anyone but because I have tried every available means and I honestly do not know where else to turn.”
In the letter, he stressed that he was not seeking anything lavish. He told the senator that even a Keke Napep under an empowerment program would help him provide for his family, while he keeps his degree certificate aside and continues to hustle.
Part of his appeal centered on his late mother, who he said sacrificed to send him to school but did not live to see him gain employment.
“You are a mother and a woman who understands the value of sacrifice. I am therefore appealing to your heart and compassion. Please ma help me wipe away these tears. Give me an opportunity to stand on my feet and support my immediate family,” he pleaded.
The post generated wide reactions online. Many commenters praised Abdullazeez for speaking up, while others urged public office holders to create more structured opportunities for graduates and young people facing unemployment.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the 10th National Assembly, responded hours later.
Her comment, “Send your CV,” was viewed by many as an indication that the office would assess his credentials for potential placement or for inclusion in future empowerment schemes.
The senator is known for running programs in Kogi Central that have distributed equipment, grants, and training, with a focus on women and youth.
As of the time of filing this report, it was not confirmed whether Abdullazeez had sent his CV, or what form of assistance would be provided.
