Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has clarified her recent remarks about small-scale businesses, saying the Federal Government’s empowerment efforts are not limited to akara sellers but also target traders dealing in tomatoes, pepper, vegetables, roasted plantain and other petty businesses.
She made the clarification on Monday during the inauguration of the newly completed hall at the palace of the Emir of Hadejia in Jigawa State.
Her comments followed reactions on social media after an earlier statement referencing akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli businesses drew criticism from some Nigerians who argued that the remarks did not reflect the country’s current economic realities.
Addressing the controversy, the First Lady explained that the government’s intervention programmes are designed to support different categories of small traders and improve their economic sustainability.
According to her, the Federal Government had already provided N100 million to the Jigawa State Government to support 2,000 petty traders across the state.
She said the initiative is aimed at helping beneficiaries strengthen and recapitalise their businesses.
“It’s not only akara. We also have tomato sellers, boole sellers, pepper sellers and those selling vegetables in the market,” she said, adding that government support would continue to expand opportunities for small business owners.
Mrs Tinubu stated that each beneficiary is expected to receive N50,000 as business support to boost existing enterprises and improve livelihoods.
She also maintained that public criticism would not discourage ongoing empowerment efforts.
According to her, many beneficiaries appreciate the intervention programmes, adding that the government remains committed to ensuring citizens receive support despite differing public opinions.
The First Lady further highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential beyond crude oil, urging young Nigerians to explore opportunities in agriculture and other untapped sectors.
Reflecting on recent visits across the country, she said Nigeria possesses abundant natural resources that remain underutilised and encouraged greater focus on developing those opportunities for national growth.
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