Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has responded to backlash following her remarks on small-scale businesses, such as the sale of akara (fried bean cakes), kulikull, and roasted corn.
Tinubu had earlier highlighted her office’s support for Nigerians engaging in petty trading since her husband assumed office.
The comments drew widespread criticism, with many Nigerians urging her to encourage members of her own household to venture into similar businesses.
Speaking in Jigawa on Monday, the First Lady defended her position.
She clarified that her office does not only support akara sellers but also empowers traders dealing in tomatoes, pepper, vegetables, and other market goods.
“Because of the atmosphere and what is going on, I’ve told Her Excellency that we’ve already given — donated about ₦100 million — to her to use to empower 2,000 petty traders.
“And I know they’ve been talking that I said akara. It’s not only akara; we also have tomato sellers, bole sellers, those selling pepper, and vegetables in the market.
“We will continue to empower them and add to their resources so that their trade can really be sustainable. That is what we are doing,” Tinubu said.
She assured that her office would sustain support for women in business through capital and other necessary assistance.
“I know all those people who are affected appreciate it. We are not intimidated by all those wrong reports. We are forging ahead and making sure that our people are well cared for,” she stated.
