Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has addressed the controversy surrounding her recent promotional video for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), clarifying that the clip was produced without any financial reward and was not driven by political considerations.
The video, which went viral last week, showed the actress commending recent improvements at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. However, it sparked mixed reactions online, especially due to Ojo’s past political positions.
In the caption accompanying the Instagram post, Ojo wrote, “FAAN is changing for the better in so many ways. Besides the renovation of the MMIA Lagos Terminal 1 and the beauty & comfort of Terminal 2, the service of their Protocol Team is exceptional. I’m so proud of my country.”
The post triggered debates among social media users, with some questioning her apparent endorsement of a federal agency, considering her vocal criticism of the APC government during the 2020 EndSARS protests and her support for Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election.
Reacting to the speculation, the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, dismissed claims that Ojo was engaged as a brand ambassador or paid for the video.
“Iyabo Ojo was not ‘awarded a gig’ by FAAN, nor is she an Ambassador. She was only asked to raise awareness on transformational initiatives under this same Tinubu administration at the airport while shooting a movie scene. There was no financial incentive,” Kuku stated on her verified X account.
Addressing the backlash, Ojo took to Instagram on Sunday to explain the context of the video. She insisted that her actions were rooted in patriotism and not politics.
“I’m Nigerian. And I’m a voice. When I see progress — airports upgraded, roads rebuilt, systems improved — I shout it from the rooftops, if need be, not because I’m paid, not because I’m political, but because I feel it and I want good for my country,” she wrote.
According to her, she had obtained permission to shoot a movie scene at the airport when FAAN requested her assistance in promoting visible improvements.
“FAAN approached me: You’ve seen the changes, please help us spread the word. So I did. FOR FREE. No fee. No contract. Just love for Nigeria,” she added.
The actress further stressed that her loyalty lies with Nigeria and not any political party.
“I praise GOOD — not government, and if the government does good, I’ll praise them too. My loyalty? To my country. Always.”
She concluded by stating her openness to working with any political group that prioritises national progress.
“I’ll work with any political party — as long as it’s about building a better tomorrow for our dear nation. No hate. No agenda. Just hands joined.”
