Dr. Tunde Lemo, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has said he has no problem being referred to as “Baba Elewa” or “Ewa Boy” because of his childhood experience helping his grandmother sell beans. He made the remark while reflecting on his humble upbringing, drawing a light-hearted comparison with Nigeria’s First Lady, who is popularly called “Mama Alakara.”
Speaking during an interview on The Legacy Series on Thursday, 23 July, 2026, Lemo recalled growing up in his grandmother’s house, where she earned a living by selling beans. He explained that after returning from school each afternoon, he joined her in hawking beans, an experience he said remains a memorable part of his childhood.
Sharing the story with a touch of humour, Lemo said, “I grew up in the house of my grandmother who was selling beans. So in the afternoon when I came back from school, I will also help her to hawk beans. When people jokingly call our first lady, Mama Alakara, you can call me ‘Baba Elewa’ or Ewa Boy.”
His remarks drew attention to the importance of embracing one’s background rather than being ashamed of it. By comparing himself to the affectionate nickname associated with the First Lady, Lemo suggested there is dignity in honest labour and no reason to hide the experiences that shaped one’s journey……See More
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