The Presidency has defended the First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s recent comments encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses such as selling akara and roasted corn, insisting there is dignity in honest labour.
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, Mr. Sunday Dare, who gave the defence during an interview, shared his personal experience of helping his mother sell akara, bananas and oranges while growing up in Jos, Plateau State.
His remarks followed public criticism of the First Lady after she urged Nigerians to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, with some critics suggesting she should first encourage members of her own family to engage in such ventures.
Dare recounts childhood experience
Defending the First Lady’s position, Dare said there was nothing shameful about engaging in small businesses, noting that such ventures helped his mother provide for the family and fund his education.
“My mother sold akara, bananas and oranges in Jos, Plateau State, and through this, they were able to train me. There’s nothing wrong with that,” he said.
Informal sector remains vital
Dare stressed that Nigeria’s informal sector remains a critical pillar of the economy, describing small-scale entrepreneurs as key contributors to economic resilience.
According to him, traders who sell akara, kuli-kuli and other locally made products are found across the country and play an important role in sustaining livelihoods and supporting economic activities.
He urged Nigerians not to misinterpret the First Lady’s comments, explaining that her message was intended to encourage entrepreneurship rather than demean any profession.
‘Do something productive’
The presidential spokesman said the First Lady’s appeal was simply a call for Nigerians to develop entrepreneurial skills and remain productive regardless of the scale of the business.
“You must not miss the First Lady’s point. Her point is that whatever it is, try and do something, have some level of entrepreneurial skill,” Dare added.
The Presidency maintained that honest work, regardless of its size or nature, should be respected and encouraged as part of efforts to promote self-reliance and economic growth.
