Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has come under intense criticism on X after suggesting that Nigerians could start small businesses such as akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli with little capital.
Speaking in a video while explaining the Federal Government’s support for small businesses through grants, the First Lady said the administration had encouraged entrepreneurship by providing grants rather than loans.
“To start 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 sparked widespread reactions on X, with many users arguing that the remarks failed to acknowledge the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians amid rising inflation and the high cost of living.
An X user identified as @Susan described the statement as insulting, alleging that it reflected a lack of understanding of the challenges confronting ordinary citizens.
Another user, @DedeHydra, blamed Nigerians for electing the current administration, claiming the First Lady’s remarks demonstrated a disconnect from the realities faced by many families. The user also urged voters to reject the administration in the 2027 general election.
Similarly, @YanaOffycial criticised the comments, saying they reflected poorly on the government and warning against a second term for the administration.
Another user, PoliticalPhoenix, argued that while grants could benefit some individuals, they were insufficient to address the broader economic challenges confronting Nigerians.
According to the user, the country’s economic difficulties, including high fuel prices, inflation and business closures, require comprehensive economic reforms rather than what was described as public relations initiatives.
Also reacting, @MrEazzy criticised the First Lady’s remarks, while another user, DonC, argued that the comments suggested the government lacked a broader vision for innovation, engineering and entrepreneurship among young Nigerians.
However, not all reactions were critical.
An X user, @Akikanju, defended the First Lady, insisting that selling akara remains a respectable and profitable business capable of providing sustainable income.
The user argued that many Nigerians had successfully built livelihoods, financed education, acquired property and supported their families through the business. He further maintained that many young people overlook viable business opportunities because of negative perceptions about small-scale enterprises.
The differing reactions highlight the growing public debate over the government’s economic policies and support programmes, as Nigerians continue to express divergent views on the effectiveness of measures aimed at easing economic hardship and promoting entrepreneurship.
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