Tinubu jokes with online trend, calls First Lady ‘Iya Alakara’
President Bola Ahmed has joined the online trend surrounding the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, playfully referring to her as “Iya Alakara” (mother of an akara seller). The remark, made during the inaugural Presidential Press Corps Dinner at the State House in Abuja, was widely interpreted as a light-hearted reference to the recent public conversation […]
President Bola Ahmed has joined the online trend surrounding the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, playfully referring to her as “Iya Alakara” (mother of an akara seller).
The remark, made during the inaugural Presidential Press Corps Dinner at the State House in Abuja, was widely interpreted as a light-hearted reference to the recent public conversation sparked by the First Lady’s comments on small-scale businesses.
While acknowledging guests at the event, the President said: “Good evening, gentlemen of the press, ladies and gentlemen, my dear wife, the First Lady, Iya Alakara.”
The comment followed recent remarks by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who encouraged Nigerians, particularly women, to explore small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli as viable means of earning a living amid prevailing economic challenges.
Beyond the light-hearted moment, President Tinubu used the occasion to highlight what he described as positive economic indicators under his administration.
“The economy is stabilising. Public revenues are strengthening, foreign reserves have risen above $50 billion, investors’ confidence has returned, and the oil and gas sector is attracting fresh investments,” he said.
On security, the President said military operations had intensified, intelligence gathering had improved, and collaboration among security agencies had resulted in the neutralisation of thousands of terrorists and criminal elements, the rescue of hostages, and the recovery of communities previously under attack.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the country.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to secure every part of our country so that every Nigerian can live and prosper in peace,” the President said.