‘Mama Akara Seller’— Tinubu Addresses First Lady Amid Controversial Remark

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday referred to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as “Iya Alakara”—a Yoruba expression meaning mama akara seller—during the inaugural Presidential Press Corps Dinner held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.

The President made the light-hearted remark while acknowledging dignitaries present at the event hosted by the State House Press Corps.

Addressing guests, Tinubu said, “Gentlemen of the press, ladies and gentlemen, my dear wife, the First Lady, the Iya Alakara.”

The President attended the dinner alongside senior government officials, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The comment appeared to reference a recent viral video in which the First Lady encouraged Nigerian women to embrace small and medium-scale enterprises as a pathway to economic empowerment.

Speaking during the earlier event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu had advised women not to underestimate the value of petty trading, using the example of frying and selling akara as a viable business that could generate income.

According to her, starting a small business does not necessarily require huge capital, adding that many successful entrepreneurs began with modest ventures.

The remark, however, generated mixed reactions on social media, particularly among young Nigerians.

While some defended the First Lady’s comments as practical advice promoting entrepreneurship and self-reliance, others criticised the statement, arguing that it appeared insensitive to the country’s economic realities and rising unemployment.

Several commentators questioned whether encouraging citizens to engage in petty trading reflected the level of economic opportunities expected under the current administration.

Tinubu’s reference to the First Lady during Thursday’s dinner has since reignited discussions around the earlier remarks, with supporters describing it as a playful acknowledgment of the public debate, while critics viewed it as a continuation of a controversial narrative.

The Presidential Press Corps Dinner brought together journalists covering the Presidency, government officials and invited guests, with the event aimed at strengthening relations between the Presidency and members of the media.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for the President to appreciate journalists for their role in reporting government activities while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to engaging with the media on issues of national importance.