Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has responded to criticism over her recent comments on small businesses, including akara selling, by unveiling a N100 million empowerment package for 2,000 female petty traders in Jigawa state. Each beneficiary will receive N50,000 to support their businesses.
First Lady Defends Small Business Support
Speaking on Monday, June 29, in Jigawa, Tinubu emphasized the importance of continuing to empower women involved in micro-enterprises such as selling tomatoes, boli (roasted plantain), pepper, and vegetables. She stated that despite negative reactions, the beneficiaries appreciate the assistance.
“We also have tomato sellers, boli, those selling pepper, those selling vegetables for us in the market. We will continue to empower them and add to their resources so that their trade can really be sustainable,” Tinubu said. “I know all those people who are affected, do appreciate it. We are not intimidated by all those reports, but we are forging ahead in making sure that our people are well cared for.”
Background of the Controversy
The First Lady’s remarks follow public backlash after she advised Nigerians to consider small businesses requiring minimal startup capital, such as selling akara (bean cakes), roasting corn, and making kuli-kuli. She made these comments during a Renewed Hope Initiative meeting in Abuja, where she explained that the initiative provides grants, not loans, to help beneficiaries start businesses.
Critics argued that the advice did not fully reflect the economic challenges facing many Nigerians. In response, Tinubu reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting livelihoods through such programmes.
Presidential Aide Defends Advice
Earlier, presidential aide Sunday Dare defended the First Lady’s advice, sharing his personal story of how his mother’s small businesses—including akara, bananas, and oranges—supported his upbringing and education. Dare emphasized that the message was about developing entrepreneurial skills and starting with available resources.
Meanwhile, singer Mr Real criticized the suggestion, stating he would prefer other options over selling snacks, sparking further debate on economic hardship. His remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some defending small businesses as honest sources of income.
The N100 million support package aims to sustain and grow the trade of 2,000 women in Jigawa, reinforcing the administration's focus on grassroots economic empowerment.
