A presidential aide has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu after many Nigerians criticised her advice on starting small businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli.
The remarks quickly sparked debate on social media. Many critics argued that the advice did not reflect the country’s current economic hardship.
Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, rejected the criticism. He described it as an “Olodo uprising.” He said many people misunderstood the First Lady’s message and ignored the purpose of her empowerment programme.
Olusegun explained that the Renewed Hope Initiative provides grants to help Nigerians start or expand small businesses. He stressed that beneficiaries do not repay the money because the programme offers grants, not loans.
He also highlighted several projects under the initiative. These include support for widows, persons with disabilities, women entrepreneurs, and donations for cancer and tuberculosis treatment across Nigeria.
Olusegun added that Nigeria’s informal sector contributes more than half of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. He said the sector also provides jobs for millions of Nigerians. According to him, supporting small businesses can boost economic growth and reduce poverty.
However, many Nigerians remained unconvinced. They argued that the government should focus on creating jobs, reducing inflation, and improving living standards. They also said entrepreneurship alone cannot solve the country’s economic challenges.
The controversy has now grown into a wider discussion about poverty, job creation, and economic empowerment. It has also renewed debate over how the government should address Nigeria’s cost-of-living crisis.
