I Didn’t Mention Only Akara, We Also Have Tomato, Boli and Vegetable Sellers” — Remi Tinubu Responds to Critics
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has responded to the widespread criticism that followed her recent remarks about supporting petty traders, saying her intervention was never meant for only akara sellers.
Speaking during an event at the palace of a traditional ruler in Jigawa State, Mrs. Tinubu clarified that her empowerment programme covers different categories of small-scale traders, including those who sell tomatoes, boli (roasted plantain), vegetables, and other everyday items.
A video shared on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, captured the moment the First Lady addressed the controversy surrounding her earlier comments.
According to her, many people focused only on her mention of akara sellers while ignoring the broader message she intended to pass across.
“I know they’ve been talking that I said akara. It’s not only akara; we also have tomato sellers, boli sellers, vegetable sellers…” she said while addressing the gathering.
The clarification comes days after Mrs. Tinubu visited Jigawa State, where she presented ₦50,000 grants to several petty traders as part of an empowerment initiative aimed at supporting small businesses and improving livelihoods.
Her earlier remarks had sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some Nigerians questioning whether the financial support was sufficient given the country’s current economic challenges. Others defended the programme, arguing that every form of assistance could make a difference for small business owners struggling to survive.
By explaining that the initiative extends beyond akara sellers, the First Lady appeared to reassure traders from various sectors that they are also beneficiaries of the programme.
The latest video has once again generated fresh reactions online, with supporters praising her efforts to empower grassroots entrepreneurs, while critics continue to debate whether such interventions are enough to address the rising cost of living.
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