Remi Tinubu Urges Burna Boy, Davido, Asake to Support Small Businesses Through Foundations
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on some of the country’s biggest music stars, including Burna Boy, Davido and Asake, to establish charitable foundations dedicated to supporting vulnerable Nigerians and small-scale traders.
Speaking during an engagement in Kogi State, the First Lady said successful entertainers and other wealthy Nigerians have an important role to play in complementing government efforts to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods.
She encouraged them to channel part of their resources towards empowering petty traders, including pepper sellers, vegetable vendors, okra sellers, melon traders, akara sellers and other small business owners.
“Good cars are good, a Maybach is good, a Rolls-Royce is good, but you can still help. The burden on government is huge. You can support pepper sellers, vegetable sellers, okra sellers, melon sellers, akara sellers and many others,” she said.
Senator Tinubu also shared the story of a young university graduate in Abuja who turned to selling akara after failing to secure formal employment.
According to her, after learning about his business, assistance was quietly provided without publicising her involvement.
She said the support enabled the young entrepreneur to expand his business significantly and now employs 12 workers.
The First Lady urged Nigerians, particularly young people, not to despise legitimate means of earning a living, stressing that dignity lies in honest work rather than the nature of the occupation.
She reflected on her own experience as a classroom teacher and noted that Nigeria remains a country blessed with abundant natural and human resources capable of creating prosperity for its citizens.
Speaking on the recent return of Nigerians deported from South Africa, Senator Tinubu described the development as unfortunate but said it also served as a reminder that opportunities still exist at home.
She encouraged Nigerians to embrace agriculture, entrepreneurship and productive ventures instead of relying solely on opportunities abroad.
“Nigeria is a blessed country. We should all come together to build this great nation. Work the land, embrace honest labour, and this country will reward your efforts,” she said.
As part of her empowerment programme in Kogi State, the First Lady presented ₦50,000 grants to 2,000 small-scale traders, aimed at strengthening their businesses and improving household incomes.
She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting women, youths and vulnerable groups through initiatives designed to promote economic self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods across the country.
Remi Tinubu Urges Burna Boy, Davido, Asake to Support Small Businesses Through Foundations