Lateef Adedimeji faces heavy backlash for supporting President Tinubu’s economic reforms

By Damilola Akinwale –

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Lateef Adedimeji has faced heavy criticism for sharing a promotional video showcasing government-backed reforms, including President Bola Tinubu’s flagship technical skills programmes.

The actor shared the promotional video on his official Instagram account on Monday, where he discussed the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Skills Up Artisans (SUPA) initiative, describing them as meaningful steps towards transforming Nigeria’s technology and creative sectors.

Reacting to the video, social media users took to the comment section to express their dissatisfaction, questioning its timing, coming just months before the 2027 general elections.

Commenters accused the actor of being politically motivated, with critics pointing out that the technical skills programme was originally launched in 2024, making the sudden promotional drive appear like a calculated political campaign stunt. Some also claimed that they had registered for the programme but received no response from its administrators for years.

In the video, Adedimeji urged people to “leave social media” and focus on acquiring technical and vocational skills. Critics described his advice as hypocritical, pointing out that social media is an important space for networking, building visibility and accessing information.

Many followers expressed disappointment and frustration, arguing that a celebrity of his status should not allow himself to be used for political manipulation or defend the administration’s economic policies amid the country’s ongoing economic challenges.

The backlash came days after Adedimeji urged Nigerian youths to vote based on their personal convictions and resist being used as political tools while speaking during a panel session at a capacity-building workshop held in Ogun State.

Adedimeji had previously acknowledged that taking on controversial or politically charged projects, including his portrayal of Bola Tinubu in a biopic, could attract misconceptions and public backlash. However, he maintained that he viewed such opportunities through the lens of his professional craft.