Akara Is Not an Economic Policy: A Response to the First Lady's Remarks

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Akara Is Not an Economic Policy: A Response to the First Lady's Remarks


By Hon. Daniel Asekhame


The recent suggestion by Nigeria's First Lady that recipients of her grants should establish akara businesses has generated widespread debate across the country. While there is nothing dishonorable about selling akara—indeed, it is a respectable means of earning a living—the statement raises deeper questions about the direction of economic leadership and the scale of solutions being offered to Nigerians facing unprecedented hardship.


Nigeria is grappling with soaring inflation, high unemployment, rising food prices, a weakened currency, and growing insecurity. Millions of citizens, including university graduates and skilled professionals, are struggling to survive. In this context, presenting akara trading as a major pathway to economic empowerment risks appearing disconnected from the realities confronting ordinary Nigerians.


Entrepreneurship is important, and small businesses deserve support. However, a serious national economic strategy should focus on creating an environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive. Citizens need access to affordable loans, stable electricity, good roads, security, quality education, and policies that encourage investment and job creation. These are the foundations of sustainable economic growth.


The concern is not about akara itself. The concern is whether such advice reflects the level of ambition expected from leaders of Africa's largest economy. Nigerians aspire to become manufacturers, technology innovators, industrialists, exporters, farmers, engineers, and entrepreneurs capable of competing globally. Public policies and empowerment programmes should inspire these aspirations rather than suggest that survival through subsistence businesses is the ultimate goal.


Furthermore, many Nigerians believe there is an unfortunate contrast between the sacrifices demanded of citizens and the lifestyle often associated with those in positions of power. At a time when families struggle to afford basic meals, public officials should demonstrate empathy and ensure their public messaging reflects the depth of the nation's economic challenges.


Constructive criticism is essential in a democracy. Rather than encouraging citizens to accept hardship as normal, leaders should focus on policies that restore purchasing power, create quality employment, strengthen local industries, and improve living standards. Nigerians deserve opportunities that allow them not merely to survive, but to prosper with dignity.


Selling akara is an honorable occupation, but it should be a matter of personal choice—not a symbol of national economic aspiration. The true measure of leadership is creating conditions where every Nigerian has the freedom to dream bigger and the opportunity to achieve those dreams.

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