Remi Tinubu Defends Petty Traders’ Empowerment, Says FG Supporting More Than Akara Sellers
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has defended the Federal Government’s support for petty traders, clarifying that the intervention goes beyond akara sellers to include tomato, pepper, vegetable and roasted plantain (bole) traders.
Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of the Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace in Jigawa State, the First Lady said the initiative is aimed at strengthening small businesses and improving the livelihoods of low-income women under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Her remarks followed public criticism of her earlier comments highlighting akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli businesses as viable income sources for women amid the country’s economic hardship.
Responding to the criticism, Mrs. Tinubu stressed that the empowerment programme covers a wide range of small-scale traders.
She disclosed that the Federal Government has released ₦100 million to support 2,000 petty traders in Jigawa State, with each beneficiary expected to receive ₦50,000 to expand and sustain their businesses.
The First Lady maintained that the programme would continue despite criticism, noting that beneficiaries appreciate the support and that the government remains committed to improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
She also encouraged young people to embrace agriculture, describing it as a sector with enormous opportunities capable of driving economic growth and reducing dependence on oil.
