Iyabo Ojo Defends FAAN Promotion, Says Support Was ‘Patriotic, Not Political’

Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has addressed the backlash that followed her recent promotional video for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), clarifying that her involvement was driven by patriotism rather than political alignment.

The controversy began after a video surfaced online showing the actress highlighting FAAN’s protocol services at Nigerian airports. In the clip, she encouraged travelers to take advantage of the service, pointing to benefits such as comfort, speed, and exclusivity. While some viewers welcomed the endorsement as positive publicity for Nigeria’s aviation sector, others questioned her motives, citing her past comments that were perceived as critical of the current administration.

Responding via her Instagram page, Iyabo Ojo firmly denied receiving payment for the promotional video. According to her, FAAN approached her for the project, and she agreed because she believes in acknowledging and promoting progress when she sees it.

“I’m Nigerian, and I’m a voice. When I see progress — airports upgraded, roads rebuilt, systems improved — I talk about it. Not because I’m paid or because it’s political, but because I want good for my country,” she wrote.

The actress emphasized that her decision was not tied to party politics, adding that she is willing to collaborate with any administration or institution if it contributes positively to national development.

“I will continue to use my craft and my voice to promote Nigeria, and I’m unapologetic about it. I’ll work with any political party as long as it’s about building a better tomorrow for our nation. No hate, no agenda — just hands joined. Let’s stop dividing and start building,” she stated.

Her remarks have continued to spark debate across social media platforms. Supporters praised her stance, describing it as mature and forward-looking, particularly in a climate where public figures are often pressured to take rigid political positions. Some commentators argued that acknowledging improvements in public infrastructure should not automatically be interpreted as political endorsement.

However, critics remain skeptical. A number of social media users suggested that celebrities must be mindful of how their public influence intersects with governance issues, especially during politically sensitive periods. Others framed the matter within broader partisan debates, questioning whether entertainers should publicly associate with government institutions at all.

The episode reflects the increasingly blurred line between celebrity influence, civic engagement, and political perception in Nigeria’s digital space. Public figures who previously voiced strong opinions on governance often face scrutiny when they later collaborate with government agencies—even on non-political initiatives.

FAAN, which oversees the management and operation of federal airports across Nigeria, has in recent years undertaken infrastructure upgrades and introduced new service packages aimed at improving passenger experience. While such developments may be routine institutional reforms, endorsements by prominent celebrities inevitably attract heightened public attention.

For Iyabo Ojo, the incident underscores the complex expectations placed on influential personalities in an era where social media amplifies every gesture. Whether viewed as a patriotic gesture or a politically sensitive move, her defense signals a desire to position herself as someone who supports national progress irrespective of partisan divides.

As reactions continue online, the debate highlights a broader question in Nigeria’s public discourse: can civic promotion of government initiatives be separated from political allegiance, or are the two inevitably intertwined in today’s climate?