Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on citizens to stop speaking negatively about the country, asserting that Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage is changing for the better.
Speaking on Thursday, October 2, 2025, during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Emir of Akko, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku, in Gombe State, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the era of Nigeria being labeled “the most corrupt country” is over.
“Calling on us as Nigerians — stop badmouthing your nation,” she said. “Gone are the days when they say Nigeria is the most corrupt country. You won’t hear that again.”
She noted that international perceptions of Nigeria are shifting positively, with increasing global interest in the country.
“Even when I go abroad, when they hear you’re from Nigeria, everybody’s interested. They want to come to Nigeria. Nigeria is the next destination,” the First Lady added.
During her two-day working visit to Gombe, Mrs. Tinubu praised the state’s natural beauty, comparing its landscapes to the English countryside, and emphasized that Nigeria’s rich human and natural resources should inspire national pride.
“We have to be proud. Your landscape is beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like that. You see that in the London countryside, but I’m seeing it here in Gombe and in other states too,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu linked her call for patriotism to the administration’s ongoing efforts in security, education, and grassroots development, stressing the key role traditional and religious leaders play in fostering unity and national pride.
She also shared a personal reflection on her commitment to national development.
“I’m 65 years old now, and I pray I live long. But I’m working so hard so that when my husband finishes his tenure, I too can walk around safely. That is what drives me,” she said.
As part of the visit, the Emir of Akko conferred on the First Lady the traditional title of Sarauniyar Yaki (Queen Warrior) of the Akko Emirate, recognizing her dedication to advocating for vulnerable groups across Nigeria.
