Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has addressed the concerns surrounding a viral video depicting nursing students allegedly mocking her during her visit to Delta State. 


The controversy arose when nursing students at a local school rejected a song introduced by the Master of Ceremony (MC), who referred to Tinubu as the “mother of the nation.” In response, the students remarked that she was the MC’s mother, not theirs.


In a statement released on Friday, Busola Kukoyi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the First Lady, emphasized the need for educational institutions to maintain discipline while allowing students to express themselves respectfully.


Kukoyi highlighted that the First Lady’s visit aimed to inspire healthcare professionals and encouraged the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences to address the situation fairly.


The statement reads: “The attention of the Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, showing chants welcoming both the First Lady of Delta State and the First Lady of Nigeria during the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 Professional Kits to Midwives in the South-South zone, held at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, Delta State, on Tuesday, 25th March, 2025. The event was primarily aimed at motivating midwives across the nation, with the goal of reducing infant and maternal mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. Her Excellency deeply appreciates the warm reception from the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State, and the enthusiasm shown by nurses, midwives, women’s groups, and student nurses present at the event.


“However, a section of the video allegedly recorded by some students at the event showed a spontaneous and playful twist to the welcome song. Following this, we have learned that some students at the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences have received queries regarding their participation in the chants. While the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria respects the right of institutions to uphold discipline, it is crucial to recognize that students, in moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner. 


“The Office of the First Lady believes that educational institutions should foster an environment where students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum. The First Lady’s visit was intended to inspire and uplift healthcare professionals, and it is our hope that this event remains a positive and motivating experience for all involved. 


“We trust that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences will handle this matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to thrive in an environment that balances discipline with free expression.”