Iyabo Ojo Denies Sponsorship Claims Over MMIA Upgrade Video, Says Post Was Patriotic

Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has clarified that her recent video highlighting upgrades at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos was neither sponsored nor politically motivated.

The video, which sparked widespread reactions online due to her past political affiliations, led to speculation that the actress had been paid or contracted to promote the airport’s improvements.

Addressing the controversy via Instagram, Ojo explained that she was invited by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to showcase the developments while she was filming a movie at the airport. According to her, there was no payment or formal agreement involved.

“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 wrote.

She further stressed that her decision to share the video was rooted in patriotism rather than politics, noting that she would always speak up when she observes progress in the country.

“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 added.

Ojo also stated that as an influential public figure and frequent traveller, she obtained approval to film at the airport and felt compelled to use her platform to promote positive developments in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, dismissed claims that the actress had been appointed as a brand ambassador or awarded any contract.

“Iyabo Ojo was not ‘awarded a gig’ by FAAN, nor is she an Ambassador. She was only asked to raise awareness on transformational initiatives at the airport while shooting a movie scene. There was no financial incentive,” Kuku stated on her verified X account.

Reiterating her stance, Ojo maintained that her loyalty is to Nigeria above politics, emphasising that she would support any initiative that contributes to national development.

“I praise God, not government, and if the government does good, I’ll praise them too. My loyalty? To my country. Always,” she said, adding that she is open to working with any political party focused on building a better future for the nation.