Remi Tinubu Faces Backlash After Advising Nigerians to Start Akara, Kuli Kuli and Roasted Corn Businesses
Remi Tinubu Faces Backlash After Advising Nigerians to Start Akara, Kuli Kuli and Roasted Corn Businesses. Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has come under heavy criticism on social media after encouraging Nigerians to consider starting small businesses such as selling akara, kuli kuli, and roasted corn using grant support.
The comments were made during an empowerment programme where grants and agricultural support were distributed to beneficiaries. While the First Lady explained that the grants were intended to help Nigerians establish small businesses, many social media users interpreted her remarks as being out of touch with the country’s current economic realities.
The video of her speech quickly went viral, triggering widespread reactions across various social media platforms.
What Remi Tinubu Said
Speaking during the event, Oluremi Tinubu stressed that not every business requires a large amount of startup capital.
She explained that ventures such as selling akara, roasted corn, or kuli kuli can be started with relatively small amounts of money, especially when beneficiaries receive grants instead of loans.
According to her, the purpose of the programme was to give people hope by providing financial assistance they would not have to repay.
She emphasized that the grants were designed to encourage self reliance and entrepreneurship among Nigerians.
Grants Distributed to Beneficiaries
The First Lady made the remarks while speaking about an empowerment initiative that provided financial grants and agricultural support to selected beneficiaries.
She explained that the intervention was not a loan scheme but a grant programme aimed at helping recipients establish small businesses or expand existing ones.
According to her, small scale enterprises have the potential to create sustainable income when managed properly.
She encouraged beneficiaries to make productive use of the financial support they received rather than depending entirely on white collar jobs.
Video Sparks Massive Debate Online
Shortly after clips from the event surfaced online, thousands of Nigerians began reacting.
Many critics argued that advising citizens to start roadside food businesses failed to address the broader economic challenges facing the country, including inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
Some users questioned whether such businesses alone could provide long term financial stability for families dealing with increasing expenses.
Others expressed disappointment, saying they expected more comprehensive economic solutions from national leaders.
Supporters Defend the First Lady
Despite the criticism, some Nigerians defended Oluremi Tinubu’s comments.
They argued that there is dignity in honest work and that many successful entrepreneurs started with very small businesses before expanding into larger enterprises.
Supporters also noted that the First Lady was referring specifically to beneficiaries who had received grants, making it easier for them to start businesses without worrying about loan repayment.
Others said her message was simply encouraging entrepreneurship rather than limiting Nigerians to any particular profession.
Social Media Reactions Continue
The controversy generated thousands of comments across X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Some users joked about the remarks by creating memes and humorous videos referencing akara and roasted corn businesses.
Others argued that the conversation highlighted the widening gap between government officials and the daily struggles experienced by ordinary Nigerians.
Several commenters maintained that while small businesses are important, government policies should also focus on improving infrastructure, creating jobs, and supporting larger economic growth.
Small Businesses Remain Important
Although the comments attracted criticism, many business experts acknowledge that micro enterprises play an important role in Nigeria’s economy.
Businesses such as selling food, snacks, and other household items provide employment for millions of Nigerians and contribute significantly to local commerce.
Many successful entrepreneurs have built larger companies after starting with modest capital.
However, analysts also note that access to funding, stable electricity, affordable transportation, and favourable business policies remain essential for helping small businesses succeed.
Economic Challenges Fuel Public Frustration
Observers believe the strong reactions to the First Lady’s comments reflect the difficult economic conditions many Nigerians currently face.
Rising food prices, inflation, and increasing operating costs have placed pressure on households and small business owners alike.
As a result, statements relating to economic survival often generate intense public debate, particularly when they come from senior government officials.
Many Nigerians say they are looking for broader reforms that will improve living standards and create more employment opportunities.
Drop Your Comments (0)