Tinubu's Playful Nickname for First Lady Sparks Debate

During a presidential press corps dinner at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu humorously nicknamed First Lady Oluremi Tinubu "Iya Alakara," referencing a popular bean cake seller. This remark drew laughter from the audience but also sparked criticism on social media, with many accusing the President of trivializing the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.

In response to the backlash, Oluremi Tinubu clarified that the Federal Government's empowerment program is not limited to akara sellers but also supports traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, and other goods. She made this statement during the inauguration of the newly constructed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia's palace in Jigawa State.

The First Lady announced that the government has donated N100 million to empower 2,000 petty traders in Jigawa State, emphasizing that the initiative aims to sustain various small-scale businesses.