BREAKING: Remi Tinubu Explains Why She Recommended Akara, Roasted Corn Business Amid Backlash

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has responded to criticism over her suggestion that Nigerians could explore small-scale businesses such as akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli as ways to generate income.

The remarks, which sparked debate online, were made during her interaction with State House Correspondents after the second-quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with wives of state governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Tinubu explained that the programme was created to provide support for citizens through grants that can help them start businesses without the burden of repayment.

She stated that the initiative focuses on giving people opportunities to become self-reliant, noting that some businesses require only modest capital to begin. According to her, activities like preparing akara, selling roasted corn or producing kuli-kuli can serve as practical sources of income for beneficiaries who receive financial assistance.

The First Lady clarified that the money provided under the programme was not issued as a loan but as a grant intended to help recipients build sustainable livelihoods.

During the briefing, Tinubu also discussed other projects carried out through the Renewed Hope Initiative. She revealed that the initiative had contributed N2 billion toward tuberculosis prevention, allocated N1 billion for breast cancer programmes and provided N500 million to address malnutrition challenges. She further noted that the programme has supported areas including education, farming, digital skills development and social welfare.

Her comments about small businesses, however, drew strong reactions from Nigerians on social media. Some critics argued that the recommendation appeared disconnected from the financial struggles many citizens are currently experiencing, including high costs of living, unemployment and economic pressure.

Others defended her statement, saying that every honest form of work deserves respect and that small businesses have historically helped many families survive.

Amid the controversy, Tinubu maintained that the goal of the Renewed Hope Initiative is to empower vulnerable Nigerians with practical assistance and encourage them to pursue opportunities that can improve their financial situation.