The Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has come under criticism after encouraging Nigerians to consider small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli as a way of earning a living.
Mrs Tinubu made the remarks while addressing State House correspondents following the second-quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with the wives of state governors at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking on the initiative’s empowerment programmes, the First Lady explained that beneficiaries receive grants rather than loans to enable them to start small businesses with little capital.
According to her, businesses such as Akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli production require minimal start-up funds and can provide sustainable sources of income for many Nigerians.
She also highlighted several interventions undertaken through the Renewed Hope Initiative, including donations of N2 billion towards tuberculosis treatment, N1 billion for breast cancer support, and N500 million to combat malnutrition. She added that the initiative has also invested in scholarships, ICT training, agriculture and other social investment programmes aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable Nigerians.
Mrs Tinubu urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the country’s economic challenges, saying the administration remains committed to improving the welfare of citizens through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Her comments, however, sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many users accusing the First Lady of downplaying the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians.
Some critics argued that while selling local snacks is an honourable means of livelihood, the government should focus on creating more jobs, reducing inflation and improving the overall economy rather than encouraging citizens to rely on petty businesses.
Others defended the First Lady, insisting there is dignity in labour and noting that businesses such as akara and roasted corn have helped many Nigerians build successful livelihoods over the years.
The differing reactions have continued to fuel debate online over the government’s approach to addressing the country’s economic challenges and unemployment.
