Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has strongly advocated for the respect and dignity of petty traders, sharing a deeply personal story of how his mother’s trade in local staples funded his journey to leadership.
Speaking in Abuja during an empowerment event organized for the widows and wives of military personnel, Musa emphasized that no honest livelihood should be marginalized or looked down upon, regardless of its scale.
A Personal Tribute to Honest Labor
The Defence Chief revealed that his mother sustained their family and supported his father’s efforts by selling akara (bean cakes) and akamu (pap). According to him, this humble petty trade laid the very foundation for his academic and professional achievements, eventually leading to his appointment as the nation’s Defence Minister.
‘Standing here today as the Minister of Defence, my mother sold akamu,’ Musa stated warmly. ‘It is with that akamu that supported my mother to where I am today. I am very proud that my mother supported my father by selling akara and akamu. Don’t let anybody make you feel that selling akara and akamu is below standard.’
Defending Grassroots Empowerment Initiatives
Musa also addressed the public backlash that followed First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s decision to provide financial support to petty traders under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). Expressing his surprise at the critical reactions from some citizens, the Minister defended the initiative as a crucial lifeline for struggling families.
He urged the beneficiaries at the event, particularly military widows and wives, to ignore critics and take pride in their businesses. He emphasized that determination and integrity in small-scale enterprises have the power to transform family fortunes across generations.