The Presidency has defended comments made by First Lady Remi Tinubu encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses such as selling akara (bean cakes) and roasted corn as a means of earning a living.
Speaking during an appearance on the Mic-On podcast, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, said he personally assisted his mother in selling akara and bananas while growing up.
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The First Lady’s remarks had sparked criticism from some Nigerians, with several social media users suggesting she should encourage members of her own family to venture into such businesses.
Responding to the backlash, Dare said there is dignity in every legitimate form of labour and entrepreneurship.
“My mother sold akara, bananas and oranges in Jos, Plateau State, and through that business, she was able to sponsor my education. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria’s informal sector has remained a major pillar of the economy, driven by millions of small-scale entrepreneurs across the country.
“The resilience of our economy is largely sustained by people operating in the informal sector. Those who sell akara, kuli-kuli and other local products are found in communities across the country, particularly in the North, and they make valuable contributions to economic growth,” Dare stated.
He urged Nigerians not to misunderstand the First Lady’s message, stressing that her intention was to encourage self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
“You must not lose sight of the First Lady’s point. She is simply saying that people should acquire skills, engage in productive ventures and create opportunities for themselves, regardless of how modest the business may be,” he added.
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