Presidential aide Sunday Dare has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s call for Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses like frying akara and roasting corn. He drew from his own humble beginnings to support her position.
Dare spoke during a recent edition of the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye. His comments came as Remi Tinubu’s remarks sparked widespread debate online.
The First Lady had urged women to consider low-capital ventures. She highlighted akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli as options needing minimal startup funds, supported by government grants.
Critics, including Arise TV anchor Ayo Mario-Ese, slammed the advice. They argued it insulted Nigerian women’s intelligence amid high inflation and limited opportunities in 2026.
Dare pushed back during the interview. He stressed the resilience of the informal sector and the dignity in starting small.
“Look at me. Wherever I am today, my mother sold akara,” Dare said. “My mother sold bananas. I carried bananas on a tray on my head to markets in Jos, Plateau State.”
He continued, “My mother sold oranges, and through that, they were able to train me. What is wrong with that? If that was right 60 years ago, what is wrong with that now?”
Dare linked the message to broader entrepreneurship. He advised Nigerians to engage in any enterprise and grow it, citing Aliko Dangote’s story of starting small.
The remarks triggered mixed reactions on X. Some users praised Dare’s personal anecdote as motivational. Others mocked it, questioning if current economic realities allow similar success.
One X user asked pointedly whether Dare would let his own children hawk akara and bananas today. Several posts accused officials of using personal stories to deflect from policy failures on job creation.
Controversy around Remi Tinubu’s comments intensified quickly. Groups and individuals online called for leaders to demonstrate such businesses themselves rather than recommend them to citizens.
Dare’s intervention aimed to reframe the discussion. He described small-scale traders as key pillars lifting the economy, especially in northern markets.
The exchange highlights deeper tensions. Public frustration over economic hardship continues to fuel scrutiny of official advice on livelihoods.
Dare maintained focus on engagement over criticism. His full remarks underscored starting with available capital and scaling gradually.
As reactions spread across social platforms, the story reflects ongoing divides in perceptions of empowerment strategies in Nigeria.
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