The Miss Nigeria organisation has apologised to actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde following a viral video of her interaction with a reporter at the 46th Miss Nigeria Patrons and Board Dinner in Lagos on Sunday.
In the clip, a presenter approached the 48-year-old during a live segment and asked her to introduce herself. He began, “Alright, welcome to 2026 Miss Nigeria dinner. I am currently live with…?”
Seemingly caught off guard, Omotola paused before replying, “You are here with who? I should tell you my name? You are not ready.” When the presenter clarified he knew her identity and only wanted to mention her name for the audience, she responded, “Why should I let fans know me? I am tired,” before walking away. The moment quickly went viral and drew mixed reactions online.
On Tuesday, the organisation, led by Rita Dominic, issued a statement on Instagram.
It read in part: “The Miss Nigeria Organisation is aware of the trending video involving veteran actress and cultural icon, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and a media representative at the recent Miss Nigeria Patrons & Board Dinner. First and foremost, we wish to publicly extend our sincerest apologies to Omotola for the discomfort she experienced. She deserves the utmost respect and care.”
“The Patrons & Board Dinner was a strictly invite-only, private event. When media presence occurs outside of the designated channels at private functions, it can lead to impromptu moments where both guests and interviewers are caught off guard, as was the case here.”
“We urge the public to exercise kindness and context before judging a situation based on a short clip. Omotola is an icon who has opened doors for many, and we stand firmly with her.”
The statement also encouraged fans to support Omotola’s latest film, Mother’s Love, which is showing in cinemas nationwide, with all theatrical proceeds going to Slum2School Africa.
The Miss Nigeria organisation, established in 1957, is one of Nigeria’s oldest beauty pageant platforms. Beyond physical beauty, it promotes leadership, cultural representation, and empowerment for young Nigerian women through events, scholarships, and social initiatives.
