First Lady Oluremi Tinubu is facing intense scrutiny on social media after suggesting that Nigerians explore minor business ventures like selling roasted corn, akara, or kuli-kuli. She argued that these activities require minimal startup capital. These comments were made at the State House in Abuja following a meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative.
During her address, the First Lady explained that her program offers grants to assist vulnerable citizens. She emphasized that these financial gifts are meant to help individuals improve their living conditions without the burden of repayment. In addition to these grants, she highlighted significant personal contributions toward healthcare causes, including tuberculosis, breast cancer, and malnutrition initiatives.
While describing the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu urged citizens to maintain optimism despite current financial hardships. She noted that the initiative has also facilitated scholarships and agricultural support.
The reaction online was mixed. Many critics felt the suggestion was out of touch with the severity of the economic crisis, arguing that such advice ignores the need for broader structural solutions. Conversely, supporters maintained that there is dignity in small-scale labor and pointed out that such trades have successfully funded education and property for many families. Others noted that while these are honest occupations, the criticism stems from a frustration with the current state of the national economy rather than the businesses themselves.
