Entertainers urged to fund charities, 100 m naira pledge

Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on the country's wealthiest entertainers to establish charitable foundations to support vulnerable citizens, while defending her advocacy for small-scale business empowerment as a viable path out of poverty. She made the remarks on Saturday, July 11, 2026, during the launch of the National Community Food Bank Programme in Lokoja, Kogi State.

Tinubu directly appealed to major music stars including Davido, Burna Boy, and Asake, urging them to channel their resources into organized philanthropy. She cited Senegalese-American artist Akon as an example of a celebrity who has undertaken significant charitable work across Africa. The First Lady stated that while luxury is acceptable, it should be paired with social responsibility. She argued that such private initiatives are necessary to reduce the immense burden on the government in addressing widespread economic challenges.

To illustrate the potential impact of targeted support, Tinubu recounted the story of a university graduate in Abuja who, unable to find formal employment, began selling akara, a local bean cake. She said she discreetly facilitated assistance for the young...