Remi Tinubu Defends Akara, Roasted Corn Business Advice Amid Public Criticism

Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu has defended her akara business idea, insisting that her advice encouraging Nigerians to start small businesses such as frying akara, roasting corn and producing kuli kuli was intended to promote economic empowerment at the grassroots. 

The comments come after her earlier remarks, made while speaking with journalists in Abuja on June 25, sparked widespread reactions on social media. 

Many Nigerians argued that encouraging women to focus on low-capital businesses was out of step with a world increasingly driven by technology, innovation and digital entrepreneurship. 

Responding to the criticism during an event in Jigawa State on Monday, Remi Tinubu defended her akara business idea, saying the Federal Government remains committed to supporting small-scale entrepreneurs across the country. 

According to the First Lady, the government’s empowerment programmes extend beyond akara and roasted corn businesses. 

She said traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, vegetables and roasted plantains have also benefited from financial support. Mrs. 

Tinubu disclosed that the government has so far distributed ₦100 million in grants, with beneficiaries receiving ₦50,000 each to help recapitalise and grow their businesses. 

She maintained that criticism of her earlier comments would not discourage the government from continuing its empowerment initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of Nigerians. 

The First Lady also encouraged Nigerian youths to identify and take advantage of the country’s abundant natural resources instead of relying solely on the oil sector for economic opportunities. 

“Nigeria is a really blessed country. I’ve been travelling, and I pray that our young people will see the resources we have in this nation. We have not even gone to explore yet because we are thinking it’s oil. But there are so many things,” she said.

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