REMI TINUBU DEFENDS AKARA COMMENT, URGES DAVIDO, OTHERS TO SUPPORT THE POOR

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has defended her recent comments about akara sellers, saying her remarks were misunderstood and were intended to highlight the importance of supporting small-scale entrepreneurs.
Speaking on the controversy, the First Lady clarified that the Federal Government’s empowerment programmes are not limited to akara sellers but also extend to traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, and other small businesses.
She also called on wealthy Nigerians, including music star Davido and other entertainers, to use their charitable foundations and personal resources to support vulnerable citizens and complement government efforts to reduce poverty.
According to Mrs. Tinubu, influential individuals have a responsibility to give back to society by investing in programmes that improve the lives of the less privileged.
She noted that philanthropy plays a vital role in national development and encouraged successful Nigerians across various sectors to establish sustainable initiatives that provide education, healthcare, skills acquisition, and economic opportunities for disadvantaged communities.
The First Lady reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding empowerment programmes targeted at women, youths, and small business owners as part of efforts to improve livelihoods across the country.
Her remarks come amid public debate over her earlier comments, which generated widespread reactions on social media and in the public space.