Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called on citizens to embrace national pride and stop speaking negatively about the country. She declared that the days of Nigeria being branded the “most corrupt country” are over.
Mrs. Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday, October 2, 2025, during a two-day working visit to Gombe State, where she visited the palace of the Emir of Akko, HRH Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku.
“Calling on us as Nigerians, stop badmouthing your nation. Gone are the days when they say Nigeria is the most corrupt country. You won’t hear that again,” she said.
The First Lady explained that global perceptions of Nigeria are changing, noting that the country is now being seen as a land of opportunity and interest.
“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,” she added.
Mrs. Tinubu also praised Gombe’s natural beauty, comparing its scenery to the English countryside, and urged Nigerians to take pride in the nation’s landscapes and human potential.
“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.
Her remarks have sparked discussions online, with many Nigerians debating whether the country’s international image has indeed shifted. While some applauded her optimism, others expressed skepticism, insisting that Nigeria still struggles with corruption and governance challenges.
Mrs. Tinubu’s visit to Gombe also included participation in a state health summit and the conferment of a traditional title by the Lamido Akko, further highlighting the significance of her tour.