Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has appealed to top Afrobeats stars, including Burna Boy, Davido and Asake, to establish charitable foundations to support vulnerable Nigerians, saying the government cannot shoulder the country’s growing welfare needs alone.
Speaking on Saturday at the launch of the National Community Food Bank in Lokoja, Kogi State, Tinubu said Nigeria is home to many wealthy individuals who should use their resources to uplift the less privileged. While acknowledging the luxury lifestyles of successful entertainers, she encouraged them to emulate global music stars who invest in philanthropy by supporting small business owners and people struggling to make ends meet.
The First Lady also urged Nigerians to embrace honest work, regardless of how modest it may seem. She cited the example of a graduate who started selling akara after failing to secure a job and, with support, expanded the business to employ 12 people.
As part of the event, Tinubu announced a ₦100 million donation through the Renewed Hope Initiative to empower 2,000 petty traders in Kogi State with ₦50,000 each to help grow their businesses, commending beneficiaries for their commitment to entrepreneurship.