By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
Khamis Musa Darazo, a prominent loyalist of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has strongly backed First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s women empowerment agenda, citing the extraordinary success of a local Abuja entrepreneur to prove that grassroots businesses can build massive wealth.
Darazo praised the First Lady’s initiatives as vital catalysts for national economic growth, family stability, and poverty reduction.
He argued that sustainable empowerment relies on discipline and opportunity rather than massive starting capital.
To illustrate the transformative power of small-scale entrepreneurship, Darazo shared the real-life success story of an Abuja-based food vendor.
“I know a hardworking woman named Asabe in Abuja who built houses from the profits she earned selling akara (bean cakes) and akamu (pap).Her story is a powerful reminder that no legitimate business is too small to create wealth. With dedication, prudent management, and consistency, ordinary businesses can produce extraordinary results” Darazo said.
He noted that Asabe’s resilience reflects the untapped potential of millions of Nigerian women who sustain households and drive local economies through small enterprises like farming, tailoring, and trading.
Darazo emphasised that the First Lady’s focus on women is a strategic win for the country, noting that when a woman is empowered, children receive better education and poverty declines.
He called on multiple sectors to actively complement the First Lady’s efforts, adding that governments at all levels must design targeted gender-focused policies.
“Financial institutions need to provide affordable, low-interest financing.Corporate organisations should offer vocational training and business mentorship.Development partners must work to improve market access for female entrepreneurs” he said
Urging the younger generation to look past quick-wealth schemes, Darazo encouraged youth to embrace small business ownership with dignity.
He stated that the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Tinubu, supported by the First Lady’s interventions, remains fully committed to building a highly inclusive and self-reliant economy.
“There is honour in every legitimate business. The story of Asabe proves that success is not determined by where you start but by your determination, discipline, and vision” he said
