Beyond Kulikuli and Akara: Why leadership narratives matter in Nigeria’s “Olodo Uprising” moment

The narrative matters

By Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan

Extract

By every indication, Nigeria’s youth are no longer simply asking to be heard; they are asking to be taken seriously.

Over the past week, what began as a social media trend under the banner of the “Olodo Uprising” quickly evolved into a national conversation. Beyond the memes, debates and outrage lies a deeper question about the kind of society Nigeria is becoming: one where many young people increasingly believe that hard work, education and talent no longer guarantee opportunity.

Whether that perception is entirely accurate is almost beside the point. Perception drives confidence, confidence shapes behaviour, and behaviour ultimately influences national development.

That is why leadership communication matters.

The recent suggestion by the First Lady that young Nigerians could consider selling kulikuli and akara as a means of livelihood generated strong reactions across the country. There is little reason to doubt that the advice was offered in good faith. Yet communication is judged not only by the intentions behind it but also by the context in which it is delivered.

At a time when millions of young Nigerians are navigating a difficult economy, rising living costs and uncertain career prospects, many interpreted the message as disconnected from the scale of the challenge before them.

This should not be mistaken for disrespect towards small businesses. Across Nigeria, countless families have built honest and dignified livelihoods selling food, running market stalls, and operating small enterprises. These businesses are the backbone of our informal economy and deserve recognition, not condescension. But there is an important distinction between respecting entrepreneurship and reducing national economic ambition to subsistence.