Portable Defends Oluremi Tinubu's Small Business Remarks

Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has come to the defense of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu regarding her recent comments that encouraged women to embrace small-scale businesses, specifically frying akara and selling roasted corn. Portable stated that the remarks were intended to promote self-reliance rather than demean Nigerians facing economic hardships.

He highlighted that many successful individuals have built their families through small businesses, which serve as reliable income sources for countless families across Nigeria. Portable noted that the First Lady's comments were misunderstood, emphasizing that entrepreneurship should be respected regardless of its size.

He also pointed out that small ventures can thrive and support families, urging Nigerians to focus on opportunities rather than dismiss modest businesses. The comments made by Oluremi Tinubu during an empowerment program organized by the Renew Hope Initiative sparked widespread reactions on social media, with critics labeling her advice as insensitive amid rising inflation and living costs.