Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has come under fire on social media after suggesting that Nigerians can easily start small businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn, or kuli-kuli with little capital.
Speaking in a video shared on X, Tinubu explained that the administration’s support for small businesses comes in the form of grants rather than loans.
She stated: “To start akara business doesn’t take a lot of money. To start roasting corn or kuli-kuli doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan, we gave them a grant.”
Her remarks quickly drew criticism, with many Nigerians arguing that the comments ignored the harsh economic realities of rising fuel prices, inflation, and widespread poverty.Critics on X accused the First Lady of being disconnected from ordinary citizens.
One user described the statement as “an insult,” while another argued that the administration’s policies have worsened hardship.
Political commentators said the grants were “crumbs” compared to the scale of economic challenges facing the country.
Others suggested the comments reflected a lack of vision for Nigerian youth, who aspire to be innovators and entrepreneurs beyond petty trading.
Not all responses were negative. Some defended Tinubu, noting that akara business has historically provided livelihoods and funded education for many families.
One supporter argued that Nigerian youths often overlook profitable opportunities around them.
The debate highlights the tension between government messaging on empowerment and the lived experiences of citizens struggling with economic hardship.
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