First Lady Remi Tinubu Downplays Viral Video of Nursing Students’ Chant in Delta

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has dismissed the controversy surrounding a viral video in which some nursing students appeared to mock her during her visit to Delta State.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, showed students of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences rejecting a song introduced by the event’s Master of Ceremony (MC), who referred to Mrs. Tinubu as the “Mother of the Nation.” In response, the students chanted that she was the MC’s mother and not theirs.

The incident, which took place during the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 Professional Kits to Midwives in the South-South region at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, on March 25, 2025, has since sparked debate online.

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First Lady’s Office Reacts to Viral Video

In a statement issued on Friday, Busola Kukoyi, Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady on Media, clarified that the viral clip was a “spontaneous and playful twist” to the event’s welcome song rather than an act of disrespect.

According to Kukoyi, the First Lady’s visit aimed to motivate healthcare workers, particularly midwives, in efforts to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria.

She emphasized that Mrs. Tinubu deeply appreciates the warm reception given to her by the Delta State Government, the people of Delta, and the enthusiasm displayed by the nurses, midwives, and student nurses present at the event.

“The event was primarily to motivate midwives across the nation, with the aim of reducing infant and maternal mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. Her Excellency deeply appreciates the warm reception by the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State, as well as enthusiasm shown by nurses, midwives, women groups, and student nurses present at the event,” the statement read.

However, Kukoyi acknowledged that the viral video showed some students engaging in chants that took a light-hearted turn but insisted that this should not overshadow the purpose of the First Lady’s visit.

Nursing Students Face Queries Over Chants

Reports emerged that some students of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences had been issued queries over their involvement in the incident. While the details of any disciplinary actions remain unclear, the development has raised concerns about freedom of expression within academic institutions.

The statement from the First Lady’s office stressed the importance of balancing discipline with self-expression in educational environments.

“While the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria respects the right of institutions to uphold discipline, it is important to recognize that students, in moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner,” Kukoyi stated.

She urged the school authorities to handle the matter with fairness and understanding, ensuring that students feel safe to express themselves while still maintaining decorum.

“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,” she added.

Public Reactions and Political Implications

The viral video has sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. While some believe the students acted disrespectfully, others argue that their response was simply a spontaneous display of free expression.

Political analysts note that the title “Mother of the Nation” has been a subject of debate, with some Nigerians accepting it as a traditional recognition for First Ladies, while others view it as an imposed label that not all citizens agree with.

For some, the incident is seen as a reflection of the growing divide between political leaders and younger Nigerians, who are increasingly vocal about their opinions. Others argue that the students’ reaction highlights a broader dissatisfaction with the current administration.

Despite the controversy, the First Lady’s office has chosen to take a diplomatic approach, urging for a positive takeaway from the event rather than focusing on the viral moment.

Conclusion

While the viral video of the nursing students’ chant has generated discussions about respect, discipline, and free expression, the Office of the First Lady has chosen to downplay the incident, emphasizing the bigger picture of her visit—motivating healthcare professionals and supporting maternal and child health in Nigeria.

As the debate continues, the way the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences addresses the issue will be closely watched, with many hoping for a fair and balanced resolution that respects both discipline and students’ rights to expression.