Nigerian singer Portable has come to the defence of First Lady Remi Tinubu following public criticism of her recent remarks encouraging unemployed Nigerian women to embrace small-scale businesses as a means of earning a living.

The debate began after the First Lady suggested that women without jobs could consider ventures such as frying akara or selling roasted corn to generate income. While some Nigerians welcomed the advice, others criticised it, arguing that it failed to address the broader economic difficulties facing many households.

Speaking during a recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, Portable said the First Lady's comments had been widely misunderstood.

According to the singer, Remi Tinubu's message was intended to encourage people to take advantage of available business opportunities rather than remain unemployed while waiting for white-collar jobs.

Portable argued that there is dignity in every honest means of earning a living, stressing that many successful Nigerians today were raised by parents who engaged in petty trading and other small businesses.

He noted that countless families have been able to sponsor their children's education and improve their standard of living through the proceeds from selling everyday items such as food and household goods.

Drawing from his personal experience, the singer said he once saw a corn vendor in London operating the business while driving a Mercedes-Benz, adding that the experience changed his perception of small-scale entrepreneurship.

Portable maintained that people should not look down on humble businesses because they can become profitable when managed effectively.

He urged Nigerians to focus on creating legitimate sources of income rather than dismissing opportunities because they appear modest.