Nigerian First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has broken silence over her remark on empowering small-scale women entrepreneurs across Nigeria to start businesses like akara and kulikuli production.
NPO Reported that Tinubu had come under fire during her address at an empowerment programme where she claimed that businesses like akara making, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli production require relatively small capital, making them accessible opportunities for individuals seeking to start a means of livelihood.
This had been met heavy backlash from members of the public who slammed the first lady over what they considered an impoverishing scheme.
Reacting to the critics of her initiative during her address at the inauguration of the newly constructed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace in Jigawa State, Tinubu talked down the reports circulating on social media.
She insisted that her initiative and statement are targeted at improving the livelihoods of grassroots women and strengthening small businesses.
The First Lady noted that that the programme not only target akara sellers but covers a wide range of small-scale traders such as pepper and vegetables traders in the market.
“I know they’ve been talking that I said Akara. It is not only akara. We also have tomato sellers, boli, and those selling pepper, vegetables for us in the market.
“We will continue to empower them, add to their resources so that their trade can really be sustainable.
“Our goal is to help women grow their businesses and become financially independent,
“That is what we are doing, and I know all those people affected do appreciate it.” She said.
Tinubu held that she will not be intimidated by the criticism as she reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the traders.
“We are not intimidated all those their wrong reports. We are forging ahead and making sure that our people are well cared for.
“We will continue to care in our capacity.” She said.
Senator Tinubu maintained that empowering women remains a key strategy for reducing poverty, boosting household income and promoting economic growth at the grassroots level.
As part of the programme, Tinubu announced a N200 million support package for 2,000 women petty traders in Jigawa State.
Each beneficiary will receive N50,000 to expand and sustain her business.
In his remarks, the Emir of Hadejia, Alhaji Adamu Abubakar Maje, hailed Tinubu for her dedication to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians, especially women and low-income earners.