Post Follows Controversial Remarks on Micro-Businesses as Nigerians React Online
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre has shared an AI-generated image of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, frying and selling akara, days after her comments on small-scale businesses sparked widespread reactions across social media.
The image, posted on the Presidency’s official social media platforms, depicts the First Lady at a roadside akara stand wearing an apron with the inscription: “Iya Alakara, fueling the nation with love.”
The post comes after Senator Oluremi Tinubu stated during an interview that businesses such as frying akara, roasting corn and producing kuli kuli require relatively little start-up capital, explaining that the Federal Government is supporting such ventures through grants rather than loans.
Her remarks generated mixed reactions, with some Nigerians describing them as insensitive to the country’s current economic realities, while others defended her, saying she was merely highlighting accessible entrepreneurial opportunities.
The AI-generated image has further intensified public debate. While supporters described it as a light-hearted response to the controversy, critics argued that it trivialised the economic hardship many Nigerians are facing.
Several social media users questioned the judgment of the Presidency’s media team, with some calling the post inappropriate, while others defended it as a humorous response to the memes that had already circulated online following the First Lady’s comments.
The development also comes a day after President Bola Tinubu jokingly referred to his wife as “Iya Alakara” during the Presidential Press Corps Dinner at the State House, Abuja, drawing laughter from guests in attendance.
The AI image continues to generate widespread reactions across social media, further fueling discussions over government messaging and the nation’s economic challenges.
