The Presidency has defended comments made by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, following public reactions to her remarks about the "akara business."
According to the Presidency, the First Lady's comments were aimed at encouraging Nigerians, particularly young people and women, to acquire entrepreneurial skills that can provide sustainable sources of income. Officials stressed that her reference to the popular bean cake business was intended as an example of how small-scale enterprises can grow into successful ventures.
The clarification comes after the remarks sparked widespread debate on social media, with some critics interpreting them as insensitive in light of the country's economic challenges. However, the Presidency insisted that the comments had been taken out of context.
It explained that Senator Tinubu has consistently advocated skills acquisition, vocational training, and economic empowerment through her humanitarian and social intervention programmes. According to the statement, the First Lady believes entrepreneurship remains a practical pathway to financial independence and job creation.
Presidency further urged Nigerians to focus on the broader message of self-reliance and innovation rather than the specific example used during the address. It maintained that developing entrepreneurial skills would help reduce unemployment and strengthen household incomes.
officials also reaffirmed the administration's commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises through policies designed to expand economic opportunities across the country.
The clarification is expected to fuel further public discussion, with supporters arguing that the First Lady's remarks promoted dignity in honest labour, while critics continue to debate the timing and tone of the message amid prevailing economic realities.
