Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has come under criticism from several Nigerians following remarks suggesting that small businesses such as akara frying, roasted corn sales, and kuli-kuli production can be started with minimal capital.
Speaking to journalists in a video that has circulated widely on social media, the First Lady highlighted the government’s efforts to support small-scale entrepreneurs through grants rather than loans.
According to her, many small businesses do not require substantial startup funds, adding that the administration has provided financial assistance to beneficiaries without expecting repayment.
“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.
However, the comments sparked mixed reactions online, with many social media users arguing that the statement failed to acknowledge the economic realities confronting ordinary Nigerians.
One user, identified as @whokantakulaya, stated that citizens were not merely seeking handouts but a society where basic necessities are affordable and accessible.
Another commenter, @Susan, described the remarks as insensitive, while others questioned whether promoting small-scale petty trading was an adequate response to the country’s economic challenges.
Some critics argued that rising inflation, fuel costs, and the high cost of living have made even small businesses difficult to sustain. They maintained that broader economic reforms are needed to improve living standards and create opportunities for citizens.
Not all reactions were negative. A number of supporters defended the government’s empowerment initiatives, insisting that grants provided to small business owners could help beneficiaries improve their livelihoods and reduce poverty.
The remarks have continued to generate debate online, with Nigerians expressing differing views on the effectiveness of government empowerment programmes and the state of the nation’s economy.
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