“Start Akara, Kuli-kuli Business”: Remi Tinubu Advices Struggling Nigerians Amid Economic Hardship

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has encouraged Nigerians to explore small-scale entrepreneurial ventures as a pathway to economic empowerment, stating that businesses such as akara frying, roasted corn sales, and kuli-kuli production require minimal startup capital.

Speaking during a recent engagement, the First Lady emphasized that many profitable businesses can be started with limited financial resources, urging citizens to take advantage of available opportunities rather than waiting for substantial capital before venturing into entrepreneurship.

“To start akara business doesn’t take a lot of money. To start roasting corn or kuli-kuli doesn’t take much. We have encouraged Nigerians as best as we could, we have given people a grant, I also gave to several others,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu noted that both the Federal Government and her office have implemented various empowerment initiatives aimed at supporting Nigerians, particularly women, youths, and vulnerable groups, through grants and other forms of assistance.

According to her, the objective of such interventions is to promote self-reliance, reduce unemployment, and encourage citizens to create sustainable sources of income through small and medium-scale enterprises.

Her remarks have since generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing divergent views on the practicality of the advice amid the country’s current economic challenges. While some commentators agreed that small businesses remain viable means of livelihood, others argued that rising costs of living and inflation have made even modest business ventures increasingly difficult to establish and sustain.

The comments come at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic pressures, including high food prices, rising transportation costs, and unemployment concerns.

Despite the mixed reactions, the First Lady maintained that entrepreneurship remains a critical tool for economic growth and individual financial stability, reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting citizens through empowerment programmes and grants.

Observers say the debate surrounding her comments reflects broader conversations about economic opportunities, poverty reduction, and the role of government support in helping Nigerians navigate challenging times.