First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Clarifies Empowerment Program Amid Criticism

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has addressed recent public backlash regarding her comments on informal business owners, asserting that the federal government’s economic empowerment initiatives are designed to support a broad array of petty traders rather than being limited to specific food vendors.

The controversy stemmed from earlier remarks in which she referenced businesses like “akara” (bean cake) and “kuli-kuli” (groundnut snack) sellers, a statement that drew criticism from many Nigerians who felt it understated the current economic challenges facing the country.

Speaking on Monday in Jigawa State during the inauguration of the Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace, the First Lady clarified that the government’s support extends to vendors of tomatoes, pepper, vegetables, and roasted plantain. She disclosed that the administration has donated N100 million to the Jigawa State Government, specifically earmarked to provide N50,000 in capital to each of 2,000 petty traders to help sustain and expand their businesses.

Mrs. Tinubu stated that the government remains committed to these empowerment efforts and will not be discouraged by public criticism. She emphasized that beneficiaries of the program appreciate the support and that the administration plans to continue its outreach to low-income traders.

Looking beyond immediate economic relief, the First Lady encouraged Nigeria’s youth to explore opportunities outside of the oil sector, highlighting agriculture and other natural resources as key areas with significant, yet underutilized, economic potential for the nation.