By SUNTV Global Channel
July 4, 2026
The Presidency has come under intense criticism after the President Bola Tinubu Media Centre shared an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated image depicting First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu selling akara at a roadside stand.
The image, posted on the Presidency’s official social media accounts on Friday, showed the First Lady wearing an apron with the inscription “Iya Alakara, fuelling the nation with love,” while standing behind an akara stand.
The post followed recent remarks by the First Lady, who encouraged Nigerians to consider low-capital businesses such as frying akara, roasting corn, and producing kuli-kuli as viable sources of income. She stated that the Federal Government was providing grants—not loans—to support beneficiaries interested in such ventures.
However, the AI-generated image triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians accusing the Tinubu administration of appearing insensitive to the country’s current economic challenges.
Several users on X criticised the post, arguing that it trivialised the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians amid rising inflation, unemployment, and the increasing cost of living.
Some commenters questioned why the Presidency chose to promote informal businesses at a time when many citizens are struggling to meet basic needs, while others described the image as inappropriate and out of touch with public sentiment.
The backlash comes just days after the First Lady’s comments on small-scale businesses generated mixed reactions nationwide. While some Nigerians viewed her remarks as practical advice for self-employment, others argued that the comments failed to address the broader economic difficulties confronting many households.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued an official response to the criticism surrounding the AI-generated image.
— SUNTV Global Channel
