Post by Henry Emeka (@Emekus)

Respectfully the story is true Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, did publicly say “My mother sold akamu” while defending the dignity of petty trading. This statement was widely reported across multiple reputable Nigerian news outlets on August 2, 2026.

What actually happened
At a training and financial‑empowerment workshop for widows and wives of military personnel at Lungi Barracks, Abuja, Defence Minister Christopher Musa explained that:

His mother sold akamu (pap) and akara to support their family.

He used this personal story to defend petty traders after public criticism of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s support for small‑scale businesses.

He emphasized that no honest work is beneath dignity and encouraged Nigerians not to look down on petty trading.

Why the quote went viral
The remark resonated because it came during a national debate about whether petty trading should be encouraged as part of economic empowerment programs. Musa’s statement was intended to show that small businesses can meaningfully support families and shape successful careers.

Bottom line
The quote is authentic, and the story is accurately reported by multiple mainstream Nigerian news organizations.

Respectfully the story is true Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, did publicly say “My...

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Comments

Linzkits: This one is confused... The moment you join APC or work for Tinubu you must lose your sense
Henry Emeka: For sure anyone can support any party that is there choice but the truth must be told Nigerian demands leaders reset and we ask respectfully that any Nigerian supporting bad governance must tell their children the truth why they cannot go to school and come back home safely without been killed/kidna...
DAGOJAY NIG LTD: Defending the dignity of petty training is not the issue. The issue is: times have changed. Petty trading requires more than N50,000 these days. Realistic expectations are necessary before we come out to speak to the masses.