First lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has defended her recent remarks about small-scale businesses, clarifying that the federal government’s economic empowerment programme is designed to support a wide range of petty traders and not only akara sellers.
She made the clarification on Monday during the inauguration of the newly completed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace in Jigawa State.
Her comments followed widespread criticism on social media after she previously referenced businesses such as akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli while discussing government support for small enterprises.
Responding to the backlash, the First Lady said the empowerment initiative covers traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, roasted plantain (bole) and other small businesses.
“Because of what is happening, I have informed Her Excellency that we have already donated N100 million to the Jigawa State Government to empower 2,000 petty traders,” she said.
“I know people have been saying I mentioned only akara. It’s not just akara. We also have tomato sellers, bole sellers, pepper sellers and those selling vegetables in our markets.
“We will continue to empower them by adding to their resources so their businesses can become sustainable.”
She also disclosed that each beneficiary would receive N50,000 to recapitalise their businesses.
“We have identified 2,000 women already engaged in small businesses. Each of them will receive N50,000 to strengthen their businesses. The N100 million has already been released,” she said.
The First Lady maintained that public criticism would not distract the government from implementing its empowerment programmes.
“I know those who benefit from these interventions appreciate them. We are not intimidated by inaccurate reports. We will continue moving forward to ensure our people are properly cared for,” she added.
