‘It’s Not Just Akara’ — Remi Tinubu Clarifies Remarks, Says FG Also Supports Tomato, Pepper Sellers, Boli Vendors

• “It’s not only akara,” First Lady Remi Tinubu says as she clarifies her remarks, explaining that the Federal Government’s empowerment programme also supports tomato, pepper, vegetable and bọọli vendors, alongside other small business owners.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has clarified her recent remarks on small businesses, stressing that the Federal Government’s empowerment programme is not limited to akara sellers but also supports tomato, pepper, vegetable and bọọli (roasted plantain) vendors, among other petty traders.

Speaking during an empowerment programme in Jigawa State, the First Lady dismissed reports suggesting she singled out only akara sellers, explaining that the initiative is designed to strengthen a wide range of small businesses operated by women.

According to her, her office has already donated ₦100 million to empower 2,000 women petty traders in the state, with each beneficiary receiving ₦50,000 to help expand and sustain their businesses.

Responding to the criticism, Tinubu said: “I know they’ve been talking that I said akara. It’s not only akara. We also have tomato sellers, those selling pepper, vegetables and others in the market. We’ll continue to empower them and add to their resources so that their trade can really be sustainable.”

She added that her office would not be distracted by criticism, insisting that the government remains committed to improving the livelihoods of Nigerians through targeted empowerment programmes.

“We are not intimidated by all those wrong reports. We are forging ahead and making sure that our people are well cared for. We will continue to care in the capacity we have,” she said.

The First Lady also urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to embrace the country’s abundant natural resources beyond crude oil, describing Nigeria as a blessed nation with enormous untapped potential.