Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has defended her widely discussed remarks on empowering women through petty trading, explaining that her comments were intended to encourage economic self-reliance and support for grassroots entrepreneurship rather than diminish the aspirations of Nigerian women.
The First Lady said her position has been misunderstood in some quarters, stressing that every legitimate means of earning a living deserves respect and recognition.
Furthermore, she maintained that empowering women at all levels of the economy remains one of her core priorities, particularly those operating small and medium-scale businesses that provide income for families and communities.
Clarifying the Message
Senator Tinubu explained that her remarks were aimed at recognising the important role played by women engaged in small-scale commercial activities across the country.
Furthermore, she noted that petty trading, market businesses, and other micro-enterprises have sustained millions of Nigerian households for decades while contributing significantly to local economic development.
According to her, there is dignity in honest labour regardless of the size of the business.
Supporting Grassroots Entrepreneurs
The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to supporting women operating at the grassroots level.
Furthermore, she stated that many women begin with small businesses before expanding into larger enterprises, making access to financial support, training, and business opportunities essential for long-term growth.
She stressed that empowering women economically strengthens families and communities alike.
Small businesses remain the backbone of many local economies.
Women as Drivers of Economic Growth
Senator Tinubu emphasised that women play a critical role in Nigeria’s economic development.
Furthermore, women-owned businesses contribute to employment generation, food security, household income, and community development across both urban and rural areas.
She encouraged continued investment in programmes that improve women’s access to finance, education, technology, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Women’s empowerment promotes inclusive development.
Importance of Financial Independence
The First Lady stated that financial independence enables women to contribute more meaningfully to national development.
Furthermore, supporting women entrepreneurs enhances household stability while creating opportunities for future generations.
She noted that every successful enterprise often begins with a modest idea supported by determination and hard work.
Economic empowerment builds stronger societies.
Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
Senator Tinubu reiterated that her office will continue implementing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of women nationwide.
Furthermore, programmes focusing on skills acquisition, healthcare, education, agriculture, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and social protection remain central to her advocacy efforts.
She expressed confidence that sustained support would enable more women to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Empowerment creates lasting opportunities.
Encouraging Respect for Honest Work
The First Lady also called for greater respect for all forms of legitimate economic activity.
Furthermore, she stressed that no lawful occupation should be looked down upon, as every honest profession contributes to national productivity and economic growth.
She encouraged Nigerians to celebrate entrepreneurship at every level while supporting individuals striving to improve their lives through lawful means.
Hard work deserves recognition.
Promoting Inclusive Economic Development
Senator Tinubu maintained that inclusive economic growth requires opportunities for citizens across all income levels.
Furthermore, empowering women engaged in micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises complements broader national efforts to reduce poverty, create jobs, and strengthen economic resilience.
She encouraged greater collaboration between government institutions, development partners, financial organisations, and the private sector to expand support for women entrepreneurs.
Strengthening Women’s Economic Participation
By clarifying her remarks, Senator Oluremi Tinubu reaffirmed her belief that empowering women—whether through petty trading, small businesses, or larger entrepreneurial ventures—remains essential to Nigeria’s social and economic development.
Furthermore, she emphasised that her advocacy seeks to encourage dignity in honest work, expand opportunities for women at the grassroots, and promote sustainable economic empowerment capable of improving families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
