The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Remi Tinubu, has urged struggling Nigerians to consider starting small businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli, saying such ventures require little capital to begin.
The remarks came as the First Lady defended the Federal Government’s efforts to support vulnerable Nigerians through grants rather than loans. She also disclosed that more than ₦3 billion has already been spent on empowerment programmes across the country.
Speaking about the government’s intervention, Remi Tinubu explained that many beneficiaries received grants to help them establish or expand their businesses.
“To start akara business doesn’t take a lot of money. To start roasting corn or kuli-kuli doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan, we gave them a grant. We have encouraged Nigerians as best as we could. I also gave to several others.”
According to the First Lady, the administration believes that providing grants instead of loans reduces financial pressure on beneficiaries. Furthermore, she said the initiative is designed to encourage self-reliance while creating more opportunities for people to earn a living.
She added that more than ₦3 billion has been invested in programmes aimed at empowering poor Nigerians.
While some Nigerians welcomed the emphasis on small businesses, others argued that starting and sustaining even modest ventures has become increasingly difficult due to rising living costs.
Meanwhile, many reactions surfaced on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Several users questioned whether low startup costs alone are enough to guarantee success. They pointed to inflation, the rising cost of food items, transportation and operating expenses as major challenges facing small business owners.
Others argued that although grants are helpful, broader economic reforms are needed to create a more supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
However, small businesses continue to play a significant role in Nigeria’s economy. In addition, they provide employment opportunities and income for millions of households across the country.
