Popular comedian and media personality Mr Jollof has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu following the backlash over her advice encouraging Nigerians to embrace small businesses such as akara, kuli-kuli and groundnut.
The First Lady’s remarks sparked criticism on social media, with many Nigerians arguing that the country’s economic challenges require broader government intervention rather than suggestions to start small-scale businesses.
Reacting to the criticism, Mr Jollof insisted there is nothing wrong with encouraging people to start from humble beginnings, stressing that many successful families have been built through small businesses.
“I know a woman who trained more than five children through the university from selling roasted plantain, fish and akara. Even kuli-kuli vendors are booked for events every weekend, and the product can also be exported,” he said.
He also defended the First Lady’s record, arguing that many critics ignored her contributions to healthcare, education, women’s empowerment and sports while focusing only on her business advice.
According to Mr Jollof, Remi Tinubu has supported primary healthcare, promoted education, encouraged women’s participation in governance, rewarded female athletes with cash gifts and houses in Abuja, and donated to the National Library.
“When the President’s wife supported primary healthcare, una no talk. When she supported education, una no talk. When she made sure Nigerian women were included in decision-making, una no talk.
There’s no constitutional role for the First Lady; she’s only doing her bit to support,” he added.
The debate continues to fuel conversations about the First Lady’s remarks and the role of government in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Watch the video below…
“I know a woman here in Delta State who, for over 20 to 30 years, used the money she made from selling roasted plantain and beans to train more than five children through university.”
— Mr. Jollof defends First Lady Remi Tinubu’s akara and kuli-kuli business idea. https://t.co/6wDp8fgdfn pic.twitter.com/wWgQNT774i
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) June 27, 2026