Petty traders support remains a key part of the Federal Government’s economic empowerment programme, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has said, clarifying that the initiative is designed to benefit a broad range of small-scale business owners and not only akara sellers. She made the clarification on Monday during the inauguration of the newly completed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace in Jigawa State.
The clarification followed public reactions on social media after the First Lady previously cited businesses such as akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli while discussing the government’s efforts to empower small entrepreneurs. Addressing the criticism, Mrs Tinubu explained that the petty traders support initiative also includes traders dealing in tomatoes, peppers, vegetables, roasted plantain, commonly known as bole, and other market businesses.
“Because of what is happening, I have informed Her Excellency that we have already donated N100 million to the Jigawa State Government to empower 2,000 petty traders,” she said.
She added: “I know people have been saying I mentioned only akara. It’s not just akara. We also have tomato sellers, bole sellers, pepper sellers and those selling vegetables in our markets. “We will continue to empower them by adding to their resources so their businesses can become sustainable.”
The First Lady disclosed that the Federal Government has released N100 million to support 2,000 women already engaged in small businesses across Jigawa State. According to her, each beneficiary will receive N50,000 to help recapitalise and strengthen their businesses.
“We have identified 2,000 women already engaged in small businesses. Each of them will receive N50,000 to strengthen their businesses. The N100 million has already been released,” she said.
The intervention forms part of the government’s broader petty traders support programme aimed at improving access to business capital for micro-enterprises and helping small traders sustain and expand their operations.
Mrs Tinubu also said public criticism would not deter the administration from implementing initiatives targeted at improving the livelihoods of Nigerians. According to the First Lady, beneficiaries of the intervention recognise its value despite differing public opinions.
“I know those who benefit from these interventions appreciate them. We are not intimidated by inaccurate reports. We will continue moving forward to ensure our people are properly cared for,” she said.
The empowerment programme is one of several initiatives designed to strengthen small businesses, improve household incomes and expand economic opportunities for traders operating at the grassroots level.
