“A reflection of business growth” – Group defends First Lady’s akara comment

Renewed Hope Neighbour-to-Neighbour has defended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, over her comments encouraging small-scale businesses such as frying akara, selling roasted corn, groundnuts, and similar ventures.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, the pro-government group described the First Lady’s remarks as a practical message of economic empowerment, rather than an attempt to downplay the nation’s economic difficulties.

The group’s National Coordinator, Belusochukwu Enwere, said the comments had been taken out of context and sensationalised on social media.

“The First Lady’s comments were clear and constructive. They highlighted the importance of starting small businesses with minimal capital and scaling them up over time,” Enwere said.

He explained that the examples cited by the First Lady — including akara, kuli-kuli, roasted corn, and groundnuts — were meant to illustrate accessible business ideas that require relatively low start-up capital, especially when supported by grants rather than loans.

“We regret that these remarks have been taken out of context and sensationalised by some sections of the public and social media. The First Lady’s message was one of hope, resilience, and practical empowerment: start small, grow big,” Enwere added.

The group commended Senator Tinubu for her commitment to improving the welfare of women, youths, and other vulnerable groups through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

It urged Nigerians to support the First Lady’s initiatives rather than criticise her remarks, emphasising that tackling poverty and unemployment requires collective action.

“Eradicating hunger and poverty requires collective action, shared responsibility, and a renewed sense of optimism.

“Let us focus on the substance of the First Lady’s vision: empowering citizens to take ownership of their economic destinies, one small business at a time,” the statement concluded.