An ex-corps member, Umar Ibrahim, whose iconic picture went viral on social media in 2024 has finally landed a job offer from a former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami.
Ibrahim also confirmed that Pantami has fulfilled his promise of giving him a scholarship to further his education.
Ibrahim gained widespread attention after his photo, taken during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) days at Wailo Camp in Bauchi State, resurfaced years later. The image generated ridicule online but eventually led to crowdfunding campaigns that supported him in starting a Point of Sale (POS) business.
In July 2024, Pantami took notice of Umar’s story and pledged to provide him with a job and a scholarship for his Master’s degree.
WikkiTimes confirmed also that Ibrahim has since joined Federal University Kashere in Gombe State as a post graduate student.
Earlier in February 2025, Umar confirmed to WikkiTimes that Pantami had honoured his commitment, shared proof of the paid scholarship and announcing his new role as Director at Al-Waalidayn Charitable Foundation in Gombe, a charity established in memory of Pantami’s late parents.
“Prof has fulfilled his promise regarding my Master’s Scholarship. Through his Prof Isa Pantami Foundation, he has fully covered the cost of my first academic session (sic),” Umar stated.
He added, “I am also the Director of Al-Waalidayn Charitable Foundation, Gombe—a foundation dedicated as Sadaqah Jariyah to the ex-minister’s late parents.”
