Beyond Akara: Nigeria Must Help Small Businesses Scale

I believe the debate over the First Lady’s remarks on akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli missed the bigger issue. There is dignity in every honest hustle, and many Nigerian families have survived through small trading. But national ambition should go beyond encouraging people to survive. Grants can help someone start a business, but they cannot replace an environment that helps businesses grow. Government should make affordable finance, stable electricity, good roads, logistics, equipment and digital tools easier to access. The key question is how a roadside akara seller can grow into an employer, supplier and, possibly, an exporter. Nigeria’s large population and growing creative economy offer major opportunities. From fashion and food to agriculture, entertainment and technology, Nigerian businesses can reach customers across the country and abroad. Better trade systems can help producers in Aba, Kano and other commercial centres sell efficiently nationwide and across Africa. Government does not need to run businesses for Nigerians. It must create the conditions for them to thrive. Encouragement and grants are useful, but leadership should focus on helping SMEs scale, create jobs and compete in larger markets.

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