By The First Lady and wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, has come under heavy criticism from members of the public following comments she made during an interview, where she stated that starting businesses such as akara making and kulikuli vending requires only a small amount of capital.
The circulating video clip of the interview has sparked different reactions on social media, with critics expressing mixed opinions about the statement. While some argued that the comment was not entirely wrong, they believe it was inappropriate for the First Lady to make such a remark publicly, especially regarding issues affecting Nigerians. Others maintained that the statement ridiculed the economic difficulties faced by citizens.
A Twitter (now X) user with the username @ossaiovie analyzed what he believes could be the context of the First Lady’s message. He argued that Oluremi Tinubu was not attempting to mock the economic situation but rather using examples to explain the idea of starting small without necessarily requiring huge capital to begin a business.
“She only gave examples of small trades people can start with to be self-reliant. Kulikuli, beads, fashion, farming were illustrations, not a command.” he said.
Another concerned Nigerian who goes by the username @dele003 also supported the opinion that the First Lady’s statement on akara and kulikuli business was simply an illustration of how individuals could start small without needing a large amount of capital.
“First Lady Remi Tinubu advised grant beneficiaries to start small with businesses like selling Akara, corn, and kulikuli. Instead of receiving it as practical advice, many people attacked her for it” he argued.
However, expressing a different view, another user with the username @i_am_agbeke (Oluwakemi Ayefeso) noted that such an illustration does not address the realities of Nigeria’s current economic situation. She argued that stronger government policies are needed rather than encouraging small businesses that keep citizens in survival mode.
“The question is whether that should be the economic vision of a government. Should government be creating more hustlers… or creating an economy where fewer people need to hustle just to survive?” she added.
Another concerned Nigerian, with the X username @Nedumcity_, stated that the era of relying solely on small-scale businesses has passed. He noted that inflation and high taxation have made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to survive.
“This is 2026 not 1630. No nation progresses with this Akara and Kulikuli mentality. Companies are shutting down because of running costs, multinationals are leaving the country, citizens are heavily taxed, everyone literally wants to Japa.” he noted.
The video clip of the interview has continued to generate debate online, with diverse opinions from members of the public focusing on the context and meaning of the First Lady’s remarks.
