By Abigail David

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has clarified that the Federal Government’s economic empowerment programme is designed to support a broad range of petty traders, not only akara sellers, following criticism over her earlier remarks on small-scale businesses.

Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of the newly completed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace in Jigawa State, the First Lady said the initiative also covers traders selling tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, roasted plantain (bole) and other market goods.

She announced that the Federal Government had released ₦100 million to the Jigawa State Government to empower 2,000 women engaged in small businesses.

According to her, each beneficiary will receive ₦50,000 to recapitalise and expand their businesses, adding that the intervention is aimed at improving the sustainability of small enterprises.

Addressing criticism on social media over her previous reference to akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli sellers, Tinubu said the programme was never intended to focus on a single category of traders.

“It’s not just akara. We also have tomato sellers, bole sellers, pepper sellers and those selling vegetables in our markets. We will continue to empower them by adding to their resources so their businesses can become sustainable,” she said.

The First Lady also stated that public criticism would not deter the government from implementing its economic empowerment initiatives, insisting that beneficiaries appreciate the interventions.

She added that the administration remains committed to expanding support for small businesses and improving the livelihoods of vulnerable Nigerians.