Ushie Uguamaye, popularly known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving in Lagos, has publicly apologized for her viral comments criticizing the state. Last week, Raye sparked heated reactions online after a TikTok video surfaced in which she called Lagos a “smelling state” while criticizing Nigeria’s economic struggles and leadership under President Bola Tinubu.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Raye admitted that her remarks may have offended Lagos residents and expressed regret over her choice of words. She clarified that her intention was not to insult those who call Lagos home but to share her honest observations as a visitor to the state.

“I want to first of all state that I am sorry to the people who were born and raised in Lagos State if you feel offended by what I said. I am sorry,” she wrote. “If the way that I put it triggered your emotions and the love for your birth state, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to talk down on your birth state.”

Raye explained that her controversial comment was part of a broader effort—a 30-day rant challenge aimed at drawing attention to pressing societal issues in Nigeria. Her goal, she said, was to spark conversations about the country's worsening economic conditions and to be a voice for frustrated young Nigerians.

“When I started the 30-day rant challenge, I said I just wanted to be heard. I believed that if I got to DAY-20 people would begin to hear me and join me to speak to the government,” she shared. “Lucky for me, I didn’t even have to get to DAY 2 because a lot of us were actually angry, and Day 1 of the challenge was enough for people to join me.”

The NYSC member also spoke about the financial difficulties faced by many young Nigerians, highlighting how despite working over 45 hours a week, she and others still struggle to afford basic leisure activities. “I work 45+ hours a week, and I should be able to afford hanging out with my friends every weekend. However, I can’t. But how many of us can actually afford that in reality?” she lamented.

Raye urged Nigerians not to be distracted by fleeting controversies but to remain focused on demanding better living conditions. “I encourage all of us to ask for what we believe we deserve. I know distractions will take us again, very soon. But if we stay committed to asking for better, we will get better,” she concluded.

Since her video went viral, Raye has been trending across Nigerian social media, with mixed reactions to her statements. While some resonated with her frustrations, others felt her language was disrespectful to Lagosians.

Was Raye's outburst a justified call for change or an unnecessary attack on Lagos? Share your thoughts below.