By Okoi Obono-Obla
The Dignity of Labour: Lessons from an Akara Seller
I vividly remember when the presidential campaign team of former President Muhammadu Buhari(1941-2025) visited Kebbi State in 2015. At the rally in Birnin Kebbi, something remarkable happened that surprised everyone. An elderly woman, probably in her 90s, came to the venue insisting that she wanted to hand something directly to President Buhari. She was given access, and to everyone’s astonishment, she handed over a bag containing more than ₦3 million. She explained that the money was the proceeds from her business of roasting and selling akara.
What is wrong with someone selling akara to earn a living? Is it not far better than stealing or begging? There is dignity in labour, and any honest work is worthy of respect. As the Chinese proverb says, “A journey of a thousand kilometres begins with a single step.” From selling akara, one can rise to become a millionaire, just like the old woman who donated her hard-earned money to President Buhari in 2015.
Some of us are so frivolous, puerile, and utterly petty that we play useless politics with everything. But this story reminds us that true success is built on perseverance, honesty, and hard work.
Conclusion: Labour, no matter how humble, is noble. The akara seller’s story is proof that with dedication, one can achieve greatness and inspire generations.
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