Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has defended akara trading as a respectable means of earning a living, calling on successful music celebrities to establish charitable foundations to support poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
Speaking during a visit to Kogi for the Launch of a food bank and petty traders empowerment, First Lady stressed the importance of dignified labour. While stressing that there is nothing shameful about engaging in small-scale businesses such as selling akara or other petty trades. She encouraged Nigerians, particularly young people, to embrace honest work rather than seek shortcuts to wealth.
Oluremi Tinubu in line appealed to successful figures in the entertainment industry, especially musicians, Asake, Burna boy, Davido and others to use their influence and financial resources to improve the lives of the less privileged. She urged them to establish foundations that would provide assistance to vulnerable families, support education, empower youths, and contribute to poverty reduction across the country.
She said:
“I think it’s high time we started helping those who need help in the country. I want to appeal our young ones in the entertainment industry, I’ve mentioned it before and I will use Akon, a music Icon who does a lot of great charity work. They make the Burnaby of this world, Asake all of them and Davido we want to see you with one foundation or the other.”
According to her, celebrities are in the best position to make a lasting impact through philanthropy. She further noted that their success can inspire positive change when accompanied by meaningful social investment citing Music Icon, Akon as an example.
Her remarks have since sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians responding humorously to her repeated emphasis on embracing small-scale businesses. While some Nigerians applauded her emphasis on the dignity of labour and charitable giving.
A user wrote:
“Remi’s money is for APC members, while Burna Boy, Asake and Davido’s money is for the poor? Which kind Akara logic be this? 🤣🤣🤣”
Another user opined:
“She is saying the right thing,
Is not by calling the government out.
They can also help us youth also.but they can’t instead they go out buying private jet, buying cars, showing up everyday but can’t help the youth out, It shame on them”
The comments come amid ongoing discussions about youth empowerment, economic hardship, and the role of influential Nigerians in supporting social development initiatives.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
