Remi Tinubu’s akara, roasted corn, kuli-kuli comment sparks backlash

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Remi Tinubu, has come under heavy criticism on X after advising Nigerians that starting small businesses such as akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli does not require much capital.

Speaking while explaining the administration’s support for small businesses through grants, in a video on X, the First Lady said:

“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.”

Her comments generated reactions on X, where many users argued that the remarks failed to reflect the economic realities facing many Nigerians.

An X user, @Susan, described the statement as insulting.

“This is an insult to Nigerians and these people needs to be put in their places! The country needs to be made ungovernable for them.”

Another user, @DedeHydra, blamed Nigerians for electing the current administration, saying the comments showed a disconnect from the suffering of ordinary citizens.

“Nigerians from different tribes and religions, this is you guys’ fault. You see what a First Lady is telling your mothers, wives and daughters. She and Tinubu is going to increase your suffering seven times if you don’t vote them out.”

Also reacting, @YanaOffycial said the First Lady’s comments reflected poorly on the administration.

“It’s now clear. The husband don corrupt the wife finish. Nothing remain again. If these people are to come back for second term, I swear to God, it will be disastrous.”

PoliticalPhoenix argued that the grants being distributed could not address the broader economic challenges facing Nigerians.

“Remi Tinubu giving small grants for akara and roasted corn while her husband’s policies have destroyed millions of businesses and pushed Nigerians into extreme poverty? This is not hope – it’s crumbs from the table they shattered. Fuel prices, inflation and hardship remain unbearable. Nigerians need real economic recovery, not PR grants.”

Another user, @MrEazzy, also criticised the remarks, writing:

“When your husband fails in 2027, we’ll ensure you and your children start Akara and Kuli-Kuli business on the coastal expressway. Can’t you guys just make sense for once?”

Similarly, DonC said the First Lady’s advice suggested that the government lacked a broader vision for young Nigerians.

“When your First Lady has the mentality that you are not supposed to be innovators, engineers and young entrepreneurs, it shows they have absolutely nothing to offer. You judge one’s intelligence by the ideas they offer. This family never disappoints in committing blunders.”

However, not everyone agreed with the criticism.

An X user, @Akikanju, defended the First Lady, arguing that selling akara is a respectable and profitable business.

“Akara business is one of the most lucrative businesses in Nigeria. Start-up cost is the lowest and the profit margin is over 50 percent.

“Akara sellers sent many kids like you to universities, built houses, bought cars and provided good quality of life.

“Sadly, many Nigerian youths lack the mental and physical capacity to explore and engage the immense opportunities around them. You are doing yourselves, not the First Lady.”