Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has sparked widespread debate on X after stating that starting small businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn, or kuli-kuli requires little capital.
Speaking in a video while highlighting the Federal Government’s support for small businesses through grants, the First Lady said the administration had provided financial assistance to encourage entrepreneurship rather than loans.
“To start an akara business doesn’t take a lot of money. To start roasting corn or kuli-kuli doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan; we gave them a grant. We have encouraged Nigerians as best as we could. I also gave to several others,” she said.
Her comments quickly generated reactions on X, with many users arguing that the remarks failed to acknowledge the economic hardships currently facing millions of Nigerians.
One user, @Susan, described the statement as insensitive, writing:
“This is an insult to Nigerians, and these people need to be put in their places. The country needs to be made ungovernable for them.”
Another user, @DedeHydra, blamed Nigerians for electing the current administration, arguing that the First Lady’s remarks reflected a disconnect from the struggles of ordinary citizens.
“Nigerians from different tribes and religions, this is your fault. You see what a First Lady is telling your mothers, wives and daughters. She and Tinubu are going to increase your suffering seven times if you don’t vote them out.”
Similarly, @YanaOffycial criticized the comments, saying they reflected poorly on the administration.
“It’s now clear. The husband don corrupt the wife finish. Nothing remain again. If these people return for a second term, it will be disastrous.”
Another user, PoliticalPhoenix, argued that while grants may offer temporary relief, they do not address the broader economic challenges confronting Nigerians.
“Remi Tinubu giving small grants for akara and roasted corn while her husband’s policies have destroyed millions of businesses and pushed Nigerians into extreme poverty? This is not hope—it’s crumbs from the table they shattered. Fuel prices, inflation and hardship remain unbearable. Nigerians need real economic recovery, not PR grants.”
@MrEazzy also faulted the remarks, posting:
“When your husband fails in 2027, we’ll ensure you and your children start akara and kuli-kuli business on the coastal expressway. Can’t you guys just make sense for once?”
Another user, DonC, argued that the First Lady’s comments suggested a lack of ambition for Nigerian youths.
“When your First Lady believes young people should settle for selling akara instead of becoming innovators, engineers and entrepreneurs, it shows they have little to offer. This family never disappoints in making blunders.”
However, not all reactions were critical.
Defending the First Lady, @Akikanju argued that selling akara is a respectable and profitable business, noting that many families have built successful livelihoods through the trade.
“Akara business is one of the most lucrative businesses in Nigeria. The start-up cost is low and the profit margin can exceed 50 percent. Many akara sellers have trained their children through university, built houses, bought cars and enjoyed a good quality of life. Unfortunately, many Nigerian youths overlook the opportunities around them.”
The First Lady’s remarks have continued to generate debate online, with opinions divided between those who view her comments as practical advice on entrepreneurship and those who believe they fail to address the country’s broader economic challenges.
