Remi Tinubu defends Akara remarks, says support goes beyond petty trading

By Anuoluwa Amao

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has pushed back against criticism surrounding her comments on women earning a living through small-scale businesses, insisting that the federal government’s empowerment efforts extend far beyond akara vendors.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall in the palace of the Emir of Hadejia, Jigawa State, the First Lady said the initiative targets thousands of low-income traders, including those dealing in vegetables, tomatoes, peppers, roasted plantain and other everyday commodities.

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She revealed that the Federal Government had released ₦100 million to support 2,000 small business owners in the state, with each beneficiary receiving N50,000 to strengthen and expand their ventures.

Responding to public criticism of her earlier remarks on akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli businesses, Mrs Tinubu maintained that the intervention is designed to uplift ordinary Nigerians and provide sustainable sources of income for families.

According to her, negative reactions will not derail the government’s commitment to empowering grassroots entrepreneurs, stressing that those benefiting from the programme understand its impact and value.

The First Lady also urged young Nigerians to explore opportunities in agriculture, describing the sector as a major driver of economic growth. She pointed to her recent visit to an orange plantation in Benue State as evidence of the vast potential that exists beyond the country’s dependence on oil.

The initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on poverty reduction, enterprise development and improving the welfare of Nigerians through targeted support programmes.