Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has urged Nigerians to respect and value petty traders, stressing that there is dignity in every honest means of earning a living.
Speaking in Abuja during an event for widows and wives of military personnel, Musa shared his personal story, revealing that his mother supported their family by selling akara and akamu, helping to shape the future that eventually led him to become Nigeria's Minister of Defence.
According to him, his mother's determination to complement his father's efforts through petty trading transformed their family's fortunes and laid the foundation for his success.
Reflecting on the criticism that followed First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu's financial support for akara sellers and other petty traders under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), Musa said he was surprised by the negative reactions.
"A few weeks ago, the First Lady, the mother of the nation, contributed some amount for akara sellers and others, and I was surprised when I heard the responses from citizens," he said.
The minister added that his family's experience is proof that no legitimate business should ever be looked down upon.
"Standing here today as the Minister of Defence, my mother sold akamu. It is with that akamu that supported my mother to where I am today."
Musa expressed gratitude for his mother's sacrifices, saying her hard work and resilience played a major role in his journey to public office.
"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," he added.

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