By Peace Erewunmi

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged Nigerians, particularly women and vulnerable groups, to consider small-scale businesses such as akara frying, roasted corn sales, and kuli-kuli production as a means of generating income and improving their livelihoods.

The First Lady made the remarks while speaking to State House correspondents after the second-quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with wives of state governors in Abuja. She explained that the initiative has been providing grants, rather than loans, to beneficiaries to help them establish small businesses and become economically self-reliant.

According to her, businesses such as akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli production require relatively little startup capital and can serve as a source of income for individuals seeking financial stability. She emphasized that the support provided through the Renewed Hope Initiative is designed to offer practical assistance and hope to struggling Nigerians.

The First Lady also highlighted several interventions carried out under the initiative, including donations toward tuberculosis treatment, breast cancer support, food and nutrition programmes, scholarships, ICT training, agricultural projects, and other social investment schemes.

Her comments, however, generated widespread reactions on social media. Critics argued that the advice did not adequately address broader concerns about inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living affecting many Nigerians. Some users described the remarks as evidence of a disconnect between political leaders and the daily realities faced by ordinary citizens.

Others defended the First Lady, noting that there is dignity in honest labour and that many successful entrepreneurs started with small businesses. Supporters argued that her comments were intended to encourage self-employment and make use of grants being distributed through the initiative.

The debate has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of economic empowerment programmes, the role of government in addressing hardship, and the need for policies that create jobs and improve living standards across the country.

Despite the controversy, the First Lady maintained that Nigerians should not lose hope, stressing that the Renewed Hope Initiative will continue to support vulnerable groups through grants and other interventions aimed at improving livelihoods.