The Lagos State Government has criticised content creator Solomon Buchi over his recent advice to foreigners against making Lagos their primary destination when visiting Nigeria.

Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described Buchi’s remarks as evidence of what he called ‘bitterness’ towards Lagos.

Akosile, in a post on his X handle on Friday, said Buchi could have promoted alternative destinations across Nigeria without making disparaging comments about Lagos.

“Dear Solomon, you could have done a better job of marketing other parts of Nigeria without displaying your bitterness to Lagos,” Akosile said.

The governor’s aide also defended Lagos’ nightlife and social scene, including clubbing and the cosmetic surgery culture referenced by Buchi, arguing that such activities form part of what attracts visitors to the city.

“Those clubbing, BBL etc that you mentioned with derision are some of the reasons why Lagos nightlife is interesting and they’re in high demand by those who visit our beautiful city,” he said.

Akosile further criticised Buchi and other commentators whom he accused of consistently making hostile remarks about Lagos.

“I wonder what you guys smoke before you set up your ring lights and cameras that makes you vomit diatribes,” he said.

He maintained that negative comments would not undermine Lagos’ position as a city of opportunities, insisting that the state would continue to develop despite what he described as “hateful rhetoric.”

“No matter your hateful rhetoric, Lagos will continue to get bigger, stronger and better. It is a city where dreams are realised. Ask several of your brothers from the other side,” Akosile said.

The governor’s aide also assured prospective visitors that Lagos would have a busy calendar of activities during the festive period.

“We’re expecting to visit your families and friends in Lagos this December. Plenty of activities await you,” he added.

Buchi had earlier advised foreigners, particularly Caucasians and Chinese tourists, to explore other Nigerian cities if they wanted what he considered a more authentic experience of the country’s culture.

In the video, the content creator criticised Lagos’ fast-paced lifestyle and nightlife, saying, “The only thing you can get out of Lagos is begging, clubbing, fake life, and a den of adulterers and fornicators. There is nothing there apart from all the loudness and madness.”

He recommended Ibadan, Uyo and Abuja among the cities foreigners could consider visiting, citing their food, scenery, atmosphere and cultural experiences.

“There are so many places in Nigeria that you can visit and have a good time. Go to Uyo, a very serene city. Go to Abuja, a very beautiful place. Even go to Ibadan, Oyo State. Good food, rural areas, rustic city vibe, beautiful,” he said.

Buchi also mentioned Calabar, Jos, Taraba, Kano, Yola and Bauchi as other Nigerian destinations worth exploring.