Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has come under criticism following remarks encouraging women to consider small-scale food businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli as pathways to economic empowerment.
Speaking during a meeting in Abuja on June 25, the First Lady said such ventures require relatively little start-up capital and can provide sustainable sources of income for women seeking financial independence. Her comments were made in the context of promoting entrepreneurship and supporting women through empowerment initiatives.
The remarks, however, sparked widespread reactions on social media, where many Nigerians argued that the advice did not adequately reflect the economic realities facing millions of households. Critics described the comments as disconnected from the challenges posed by rising living costs, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.
Among those who reacted was activist Omoyele Sowore, who criticized the remarks, while numerous social media users shared memes and personal accounts expressing frustration over the state of the economy and limited employment opportunities.
Supporters of the First Lady, however, defended her comments, arguing that she was encouraging practical entrepreneurship rather than suggesting that small businesses were the only solution to Nigeria’s economic challenges. They also pointed to the activities of the Renewed Hope Initiative, through which grants and financial support have reportedly been provided to thousands of women-owned businesses across the country.
The debate comes against the backdrop of continuing concerns over inflation, poverty, and the cost of living, issues that have remained central to public discourse since the implementation of major economic reforms by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Economic analysts note that while micro-enterprises can provide income opportunities for many households, broader economic growth, job creation, improved access to finance, and investments in productive sectors remain essential for addressing unemployment and reducing poverty on a national scale.
The reactions to the First Lady’s comments underscore the sensitivity of public messaging on economic issues, particularly at a time when many Nigerians continue to grapple with financial hardship and rising living expenses.
Her office has not indicated any change in the objectives of the Renewed Hope Initiative, which continues to focus on women’s empowerment through grants, skills development, and support for small businesses.
