Speaking during a programme under the Renewed Hope Initiative, the First Lady urged celebrities to complement government efforts by investing in initiatives that directly improve the lives of low-income traders and small-scale entrepreneurs across the country.
She specifically appealed to the artistes to establish foundations to assist market women and petty traders, such as Pepper sellers, Vegetable sellers, Okra sellers, Melon sellers, Akara sellers, and Kuli-kuli vendors.
According to her, successful entertainers have the financial capacity to make a lasting impact on society through philanthropy.
“The Burna Boys of this world, the Asakes, all of them, Davido, we want to see you with one foundation or the other, helping the poor with your money. Good cars are good, a Maybach is good, a Rolls-Royce is good, but still, you can help.”
The First Lady noted that although the government is making efforts to address the challenges facing Nigerians, the burden remains enormous and requires the support of well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations and public figures.
She stressed that assisting small business owners and informal traders would not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction.
“The burden on the government is huge. You can still help. There are Pepper sellers, Vegetable sellers, Okra sellers, Melon sellers, Akara sellers and Kuli-kuli sellers. Akara is delicious,” she added.
Mrs Tinubu’s remarks have since generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians commending her appeal for greater social responsibility among celebrities. In contrast, others described the call as a timely reminder of the importance of philanthropy and community development.