Oluremi Tinubu's Akara and Kulikuli Program Empowers Women

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu defended the Akara and Kulikuli women empowerment program during a meeting on June 23, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. She emphasized that the initiative is not a political stunt but a genuine effort to support women in the informal food processing sector.

The program provides grants, not loans, to women, enabling them to improve their businesses. Beneficiaries like Mama Bless Ojo, a trader in Abuja, reported increased profits and improved equipment through the program.

Aisha Moham, another participant, shared her success in selling Kulikuli to supermarkets and school canteens. The program aims to formalize and scale small businesses, with reports indicating a 40-60% income growth among participants within three months.

Tinubu's remarks also addressed criticisms of the program, asserting that empowering women in this manner is crucial for Nigeria's economic development.