First Lady Calls On Burna Boy, Davido To Establish Charitable Foundations

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has reaffirmed her commitment to grassroots economic empowerment, defending her earlier remarks on supporting women engaged in small-scale businesses and urging wealthy entertainers to play a greater role in philanthropy.

Speaking at the launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Saturday, Tinubu said traders involved in ventures such as frying akara, selling vegetables, peppers, okra and melon should not be overlooked, as modest assistance can significantly improve family livelihoods. Her comments come weeks after criticism of her June suggestion that government grants could help women establish such enterprises.

The First Lady appealed to successful musicians, including Burna Boy, Davido and Asake, to emulate the charitable efforts of fellow artistes and create foundations dedicated to assisting vulnerable Nigerians. 

While noting that there is nothing wrong with enjoying luxury cars such as Maybachs and Rolls-Royces, she stressed that the affluent should also use their resources to uplift the less privileged.

Tinubu said the burden on government remains enormous and that private support for small traders can complement official intervention. To illustrate the impact of such assistance, she recounted the story of an Abuja graduate who turned to selling akara after failing to secure employment. According to her, discreet support helped him expand the business, which now employs 12 people.

The First Lady maintained that her message has always been about empowering ordinary Nigerians and creating opportunities that can generate jobs and reduce hardship at the community level.