Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has come under heavy criticism following comments suggesting that Nigerians can start small-scale businesses such as akara frying, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli production with little capital.
The remarks, made during a public engagement where she spoke about government support for small businesses, quickly triggered widespread reactions on social media.
She reportedly stated that starting ventures like akara or roasted corn sales does not require large startup funds, adding that the government had been supporting citizens through grants rather than loans.
However, many Nigerians on social media described the comments as insensitive, arguing that they do not reflect the current economic hardship and unemployment levels in the country.
Critics also said the advice oversimplified the realities facing young people and families struggling with rising living costs, inflation, and limited access to business support.
Some users defended the First Lady, insisting that small-scale trading remains a legitimate source of income and has historically supported many households across the country.
Supporters of the criticism, however, maintained that leadership messaging should focus more on industrial jobs, innovation, and broader economic opportunities rather than informal micro-businesses alone.
The debate has continued to trend online, with divided opinions over whether the remarks were encouraging entrepreneurship or disconnected from everyday realities.
Government officials have not issued additional clarification, but the controversy has added to ongoing public discussions about economic policy and citizen welfare.
The incident highlights the sensitivity around economic messaging at a time when many Nigerians continue to grapple with financial pressure and rising costs of living.