Presidency Reacts to Viral Video of First Lady's Table Tennis Match
The Nigerian Presidency has officially responded to the trending video showing First Lady Oluremi Tinubu engaging in a table tennis match with Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno. The incident occurred on Sunday, March 8, 2026, during the First Lady's official visit to Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.
Commissioning of ARISE Elderly Citizens Centre
Oluremi Tinubu was in Uyo primarily to commission the newly constructed ARISE Elderly Citizens Centre, a facility specifically designed to provide healthcare support and recreational opportunities for senior citizens in the state. The centre features various indoor games, including table tennis, aimed at promoting physical activity and social interaction among elderly residents.
The facility holds particular emotional significance as it was dedicated to the memory of Governor Umo Eno's late wife, making the commissioning ceremony both a public event and a personal milestone for the state leadership.
Presidential Aide Calls for Tennis Academy
Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, reacted positively to the viral video, using the opportunity to advocate for sports development. In his statement, Dare commended the First Lady's engagement and proposed the establishment of a specialized tennis academy.
"Nice one from the First Lady," Dare stated. "We need a First Lady Table Tennis Academy that will produce young, talented boys and girls with tennis skills."
Public Reactions to the Table Tennis Moment
The video of the First Lady playing table tennis has generated significant public commentary across social media platforms:
- Tokunbo Albert praised the initiative: "Egbon, our former First Lady of Lagos state, Senator for three consecutive terms and Nigeria's current First Lady is of great influence to young girls. Adding the Table Tennis Academy will make her even more influential and inspiring to our young girls. I support this."
- Femi Akintola expressed admiration: "I just love our very respected First Lady. She is a great example."
- Hakanni noted: "Active First Lady. Our own very lovely mother."
- Omo Yewa offered criticism: "This shouldn't even be in the news. But as usual, it's all politics. They want to be seen doing the very unusual."
Background of the First Lady's Visit
The First Lady arrived in Uyo on March 7, 2026, for the official opening ceremony of the elderly care facility. During her tour of the centre, she decided to participate in the recreational activities available, leading to the impromptu table tennis match with Governor Eno that was captured on video.
The viral moment represents a rare public display of recreational activity by a Nigerian First Lady and has sparked discussions about sports development, elderly care infrastructure, and the public image of political leaders engaging in informal activities.
