The Lagos State Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, has criticised content creator Solomon Buchi over his recent remarks about Lagos, accusing him of portraying the city negatively instead of promoting other Nigerian destinations.
Akosile reacted on Friday through a post on X after Buchi advised foreign visitors, particularly Caucasian and Chinese tourists, not to make Lagos their main destination if they wanted to experience what he considered the real Nigerian culture.
Buchi had argued that Lagos’ fast-moving lifestyle and nightlife did not properly represent Nigeria’s traditional identity. He pointed tourists towards other cities, including Ibadan, Uyo and Abuja, which he described as better places to experience different aspects of Nigerian culture.
He also mentioned Calabar, Jos, Taraba, Kano, Yola and Bauchi as other destinations that visitors could explore for their food, scenery, local culture and quieter environments.
In his response, Akosile said Buchi could have promoted those locations without attacking Lagos. He argued that activities such as nightlife, entertainment and the city’s beauty industry are among the attractions that draw visitors to Lagos.
The governor’s aide also took issue with the manner in which Buchi and other content creators discuss Lagos. He questioned the basis of some of their negative descriptions of the city and accused them of being unfair in their portrayal.
Akosile maintained that criticism would not stop Lagos from developing. He said the state would continue to attract people looking for business opportunities, entertainment and other ways to improve their lives.
Buchi’s earlier video had presented Lagos as a place heavily associated with nightlife, materialism and what he described as an artificial lifestyle. He argued that foreigners seeking a deeper understanding of Nigerian culture should explore other parts of the country instead.
He recommended Uyo for its calm environment and Abuja for its appearance and attractions. He also described Ibadan as a destination where visitors could experience local food, rural surroundings and a more traditional city atmosphere.
The content creator further encouraged tourists to explore cities and regions such as Calabar, Jos, Taraba, Kano, Yola and Bauchi, saying Nigeria has many locations capable of offering visitors different cultural and recreational experiences.
The exchange has sparked a wider conversation about how Nigerian cities are presented to foreign visitors and whether Lagos’ modern lifestyle and entertainment scene should be viewed as a representation of the country or simply as one part of Nigeria’s diverse identity.
While Buchi focused on what he considered the cultural differences between Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, Akosile defended the city’s appeal and its position as a major centre for business, entertainment and tourism.
The disagreement comes as social media personalities increasingly influence how local destinations are viewed by Nigerians and international audiences, with their comments often generating public debate over culture, tourism and the image of Nigerian cities.