Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, has defended First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu following criticism over her recent comments encouraging Nigerians to consider small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasting corn, and producing kuli-kuli. Speaking during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast on Saturday, Dare said the First Lady's message was intended to promote entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and the dignity of labour rather than diminish the aspirations of young Nigerians. The controversy began after Senator Tinubu, speaking at a Renewed Hope Initiative event in Abuja, said businesses like selling akara or roasted corn require relatively little startup capital. She explained that the initiative provides grants—not loans—to help beneficiaries establish such ventures. Her remarks sparked widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians arguing that the current cost of food items, fuel, and other essentials has made even small businesses expensive to start. Responding to the criticism, Dare stressed that Nigeria's informal sector has long played a vital role in supporting families and sustaining the economy. Drawing from his personal experience, he recalled how his mother earned a living through petty trading. "My mother sold akara, bananas and oranges. I also carried bananas on my head to markets in Jos. Through those businesses, my parents were able to train me and give me an education," he said. Dare questioned why small-scale trading, which helped many families improve their lives in previous generations, should now be viewed negatively. According to him, every successful business starts with available resources, and growth comes gradually over time. He added that the First Lady was not suggesting that Nigerians should remain petty traders forever but was encouraging people to develop entrepreneurial skills and take advantage of available opportunities. "The message is simple," Dare said. "Whatever your circumstances, try to be productive, build a skill, start a business if you can, and create a path toward financial independence."