Akara, kulikuli, and Nigeria's disconnection from reality: First Lady's advice sparks debate

The wife of Nigeria's President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, recently advised women to pursue cottage enterprises such as frying akara (bean cakes), roasting corn, and making kulikuli (groundnut paste cakes). Her remarks, captured in a viral video, prompted a significant online reaction, with many Nigerians questioning the practicality of her advice in the face of current economic realities.

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In a video which went viral, the First Lady, in company of other ladies of the realm, was seen advising people, especially womenfolk, to engage in cottage enterprises like frying akara for sale, roasting corn for sale, as well as making cakes from groundnut paste.

Content creators flooded social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok with skits, some using AI, depicting scenarios of the President and First Lady engaging in these businesses. While some skits were humorous, featuring the president hawking akara or the couple roasting corn by the roadside, the underlying sentiment highlighted a disconnect between the First Lady's suggestions and the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

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First, not a few people that I know have prospered by frying akara for sale.

The article, however, delves into the established economic significance of these enterprises. It notes that frying akara is a traditional and respected occupation in Yorubaland, often featured in cultural events. The piece highlights iconic akara sellers and thousands of "Iya Alakara" (akara sellers) who have built successful livelihoods. Similarly, kulikuli preparation has evolved into a substantial industry with nationwide economic value estimated in billions of naira. The author suggests that many Nigerians have indeed found success and prosperity through these seemingly simple businesses, challenging the notion that the advice was out of touch.

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It may shock people to discover that not a few Nigerians have succeeded in life selling akara, kulikuli or corn.