My Mum Sold Akara, Akamu To Raise Us — Defence Minister

Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has revealed that his mother supported their family by selling akara and akamu, saying her dedication played a significant role in his journey to becoming one of Nigeria’s top public officials, according to Ireporter Online.

Musa made the disclosure during a one-day training and financial empowerment workshop for widows and wives of military personnel held at Lungi Barracks in Abuja. The programme, themed “Renewed Hope for Families of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development,” was organised by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

The Defence Minister used the occasion to encourage Nigerians not to look down on petty traders or small-scale entrepreneurs, stressing that many successful individuals were raised through the sacrifices of parents engaged in modest businesses.

Reflecting on the criticism that followed recent financial support provided by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to akara sellers and other petty traders, Musa expressed disappointment over the reactions, insisting that such businesses have helped countless families educate their children and build better lives.

He recalled that his mother’s earnings from selling akara and akamu complemented his father’s efforts and provided vital support for the family, adding that he remains proud of her hard work and determination.

Musa urged participants at the empowerment programme to take full advantage of the business training and financial support available to establish or expand sustainable enterprises, noting that entrepreneurship remains a reliable pathway to financial independence.

He further explained that the initiative was designed to equip widows and wives of military personnel with practical business skills and financial assistance, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military families and promoting enterprise development among vulnerable groups.