The Presidency has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s recent comments encouraging Nigerians to engage in small-scale businesses such as selling akara (bean cake) and roasted corn.

Speaking on the Mic-On podcast, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, said there was nothing wrong with earning a living through such businesses.

Dare recalled that his mother sold akara, bananas and oranges in Jos, Plateau State, and that the proceeds helped fund his education.

“My mother sold akara, bananas and oranges in Jos, Plateau State, and through this, they were able to train me. There’s nothing wrong with that,” he said.

The presidential aide noted that Nigeria’s informal sector has continued to support the country’s economy through the contributions of small-scale entrepreneurs.

“When you look at the informal sector of our country, its resilience continues to sustain this economy. It’s because of these small-scale entrepreneurs, those who sell akara and kuli-kuli, that you find everywhere, including in the North. They are also significant,” he said.

Dare urged Nigerians not to misunderstand the First Lady’s comments, saying her message was about encouraging entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

“You must not miss the First Lady’s point. Her point is that whatever it is, try and do something, have some level of entrepreneurial skill,” he added.

The First Lady’s remarks had attracted criticism from some Nigerians, with critics suggesting she should encourage members of her own family to take up such businesses.