By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

The Office of the First Lady of Nigeria has responded to a viral video showing students chanting during the recent visit of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to Delta State.

The incident occurred at the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the South-South zone, held at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

The event was organised to encourage midwives across the country in a bid to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates in Nigeria.

The First Lady’s Office expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government and its people for the warm reception, as well as the enthusiasm displayed by nurses, midwives, women’s groups, and student nurses in attendance.

However, a circulating video clip captured a section of the event where students, reportedly from the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, added a playful variation to their welcome chants.

Reports later surfaced that some of these students had been issued disciplinary queries by the institution for their participation in the chants.

In its response, the Office of the First Lady acknowledged the right of educational institutions to enforce discipline but emphasised the importance of recognising students’ natural inclination to express excitement in a jovial manner.

The statement underscored the need for a balanced approach in fostering a school environment where students can express themselves freely while maintaining order.

The First Lady’s Office reiterated that the visit aimed to inspire and uplift healthcare professionals and expressed hope that the event would be remembered as a positive and motivating experience.

It further urged the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences to handle the situation with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to thrive in an atmosphere that promotes both discipline and free expression.