Remi Tinubu Faces Criticism Over Akara, Roasted Corn Remarks

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has come under criticism on social media following comments encouraging Nigerians to consider small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli as a means of earning a living.

Speaking after the second-quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with the wives of state governors in Abuja, the First Lady said the initiative provides grants, rather than loans, to support vulnerable Nigerians in starting small businesses. She noted that ventures such as selling local snacks require relatively little capital and could serve as a source of income.

Mrs Tinubu also highlighted the initiative’s interventions in healthcare, education, agriculture and social investment. She said financial support had been provided for tuberculosis treatment, breast cancer programmes, efforts to combat malnutrition, scholarships and ICT training, adding that the aim was to complement the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Her comments, however, sparked mixed reactions online. Critics argued that suggesting small-scale trading did not adequately address the economic challenges facing many Nigerians, with some describing the remarks as being out of touch with current realities. Others maintained that while there is dignity in such businesses, the timing of the comments fuelled public frustration over the country's economic situation.

Supporters of the First Lady defended her position, saying businesses such as akara and roasted corn sales have helped many Nigerians earn sustainable incomes over the years. They argued that encouraging entrepreneurship should not be viewed negatively, especially when backed by grant support rather than loans.

The differing reactions have added to ongoing public discussions about the government's economic policies and the measures required to ease the cost-of-living pressures facing households across the country.