- Dare defended the First Lady’s small business advice
- He said her message promoted entrepreneurship and self reliance
- He also shared how his mother’s akara business funded his education
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu over criticism of her recent remarks encouraging Nigerians to consider small businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli kuli.
Speaking on the Mic On Podcast on Saturday, Eko Hot Blog gathered that Dare said the First Lady’s comments had been misunderstood, explaining that her message was about promoting entrepreneurship, self reliance and the dignity of honest work rather than limiting people to petty trading.
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The controversy began after Oluremi Tinubu, during a meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative in Abuja on Wednesday, said businesses like selling akara or roasted corn require little capital to start. She noted that the initiative offers grants, not loans, to help beneficiaries establish such ventures.
Her comments sparked criticism on social media, with many Nigerians arguing that rising food prices, fuel costs and inflation have made even small scale businesses difficult to start.
Responding to the backlash, Dare said Nigeria’s informal sector remains a vital part of the economy and continues to support millions of families despite economic challenges.
Drawing from his personal experience, he revealed that his mother sold akara, bananas and oranges to support the family while he also helped by hawking bananas in markets in Jos, Plateau State.
According to him, the proceeds from those small businesses paid for his education and helped shape his future.
Dare questioned why many now look down on businesses that have historically provided livelihoods and lifted families out of poverty.
He stressed that successful entrepreneurs often begin with modest investments and gradually expand their businesses.
The presidential aide maintained that the First Lady’s advice was intended to encourage Nigerians to develop entrepreneurial skills, make productive use of available opportunities and build sustainable sources of income rather than remain idle.
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