The Miss Nigeria Organisation has issued a formal and strongly worded apology to veteran Nollywood icon Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde following a tense and uncomfortable interaction during their 46th Patrons & Board Dinner, held this past Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos.
The controversy centers on a viral video clip from the event’s red carpet, in which an inexperienced presenter approached the actress and asked, “Alright, welcome to 2026 Miss Nigeria dinner. I am currently live with…?” The request for her to introduce herself drew a visibly frustrated response from Omotola, who questioned the presenter’s preparedness, famously remarking, “You are here with who? I should tell you my name? You are not ready.”
In an official statement released on Tuesday, March 24, the organisation clarified that the presenter in question was neither invited to the private, invite-only event nor affiliated with them in any official capacity. The organisation expressed its sincere regret for the discomfort the actress experienced, describing her as a “deeply valued member of the Miss Nigeria community” and a pioneer who has paved the way for generations of creatives.
Furthermore, the organisation highlighted that the viral clip circulating online was edited and lacked critical context. They stated that the actress had been subjected to multiple individuals invading her personal space throughout the evening, which contributed to her frustration. They condemned the behavior of anyone approaching guests uninvited and encroaching on their privacy, asserting that such conduct is “completely unacceptable.” The organisation concluded by urging the public to exercise context and kindness before judging the situation and encouraged fans to support Omotola’s latest project, Mother’s Love, noting that all theatrical proceeds from the film are being donated to the education-focused charity, Slum2School Africa
