Nigerian singer Portable has come out in support of comments made by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, arguing that the message about dignity in labour and the value of humble beginnings was widely misunderstood.
The controversial artiste made the remarks during an appearance on the The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he discussed the importance of appreciating all forms of legitimate work, particularly small-scale businesses that have helped many Nigerians build successful lives.
Portable said occupations such as selling pepper, palm oil, roasted corn and other food items should not be dismissed as insignificant, stressing that many successful people were raised through the sacrifices and determination of parents who engaged in such businesses.
According to him, the criticism surrounding the First Lady’s comments overlooked the broader message about perseverance, hard work and using available opportunities to create a better future.
“Nigerians misunderstood what Remi Tinubu meant. If you look at many wealthy people in this country, their mothers trained them by selling pepper and roasted corn,” Portable said.
“When I got to London, I even saw someone selling corn while using a Benz.”
The singer explained that people often underestimate certain occupations because of social perceptions, even though those same businesses can provide a foundation for financial stability and personal growth.
He encouraged Nigerians not to reject opportunities simply because they appear small or ordinary, noting that value is often determined by how an individual develops an opportunity.
“When it was our turn, what we did not cherish is what other people cherish,” he added.
Portable also shared his belief that success often begins with taking the first available step rather than waiting for perfect conditions.
Recalling one of his experiences, he said he once advised someone to start a kuli kuli business despite facing difficult circumstances, emphasising that small ventures can eventually grow when approached with commitment and determination.
His comments come amid public discussions over the role of informal businesses, entrepreneurship and the dignity of labour in Nigeria, with supporters of the First Lady’s message arguing that everyday economic activities deserve greater recognition.
Portable maintained that society should encourage people who are working honestly to improve their circumstances rather than looking down on their professions.
He said many successful individuals around the world began with modest ventures before achieving greater financial success, adding that ambition, consistency and discipline are often more important than the size of a person’s starting point.