First Lady Encourages Nigerians: ‘Roasting Corn Doesn’t Take a Lot of Money’

The nation's economic conversation took an unexpected culinary turn yesterday after the First Lady reportedly assured Nigerians that "to start roasting corn doesn't take a lot of money," adding that the government had encouraged citizens "as best as we could."

The remarks have since inspired what analysts are calling the country's fastest-growing entrepreneurial movement, with thousands of graduates reportedly dusting off chemistry degrees to calculate the return on investment of charcoal, corn and roadside umbrellas.

At a hastily organised economic forum, officials insisted the statement was intended to highlight the dignity of small businesses rather than suggest that every Nigerian should immediately become a corn entrepreneur.

"We are simply saying opportunities are everywhere," one official explained. "If everyone roasts corn, someone will eventually buy it. We are optimistic."

Citizens, however, expressed concern over what economists described as "market saturation."

"I support entrepreneurship," said one unemployed engineer. "But if my banker, pharmacist, lawyer and lecturer are all roasting corn beside me, who exactly will be left to buy the corn?"

Across major cities, residents reported seeing speculative investors already scouting strategic junctions, while landlords allegedly introduced a new category of rent known as "Premium Corn Roasting Space."

Business experts also warned of possible inflation in the price of charcoal, stools and hand fans, predicting that roasted corn could soon become Nigeria's newest luxury commodity.

Meanwhile, social media users unveiled fictional government programmes such as the National Corn Empowerment Initiative and the Presidential Agency for Strategic Roasting, complete with imaginary application portals and eligibility requirements.

At press time, Nigerians were reportedly waiting to hear the government's next business recommendation, with many hoping it would involve something requiring fewer mosquitoes and less smoke.