By Our Entertainment Editor
The launch of the Tiwa Savage Foundation in Lagos on Monday was overshadowed by complaints from Nigerian journalists who alleged that they were poorly treated by security personnel and event managers at the venue.

Several journalists invited to cover the event at Delborough Hotel in Victoria Island said they were kept waiting outside the premises for hours and denied access to the main hall where the programme was held.

The event, scheduled to begin at 5 p.m., reportedly saw some journalists arriving as early as two hours before the start time. However, according to those present, they were instructed to remain at the gate while other guests were allowed into the venue without restrictions.

Some journalists also alleged that security officials threatened them for attempting to record the arrival of guests. One female security guard was said to have warned that the phones of journalists capturing footage outside the venue could be seized or damaged.

The situation reportedly worsened later in the evening when, after about 6 p.m., journalists were given media tags and branded polo shirts bearing the name of Delborough Hotel but were still denied entry into the hall where the foundation launch was taking place. The polo shirts were reportedly collected back from the journalists as they exited the venue.

According to eyewitnesses, several journalists eventually left the venue after waiting for hours without gaining access to interview the music star, invited stakeholders, or other guests at the event.

When some journalists were eventually allowed into the premises, they claimed they were further restricted from carrying out their duties. A woman believed to be part of the event’s management team allegedly warned cameramen against filming, threatening to obstruct their work if they proceeded.

The incident sparked questions among members of the press, with some asking whether foreign journalists would have been subjected to similar treatment and why members of the Nigerian media were required to wear branded polo shirts before being allowed into the venue.

One Entertainment Editor of a reputable media house remarked that she bluntly refused the invitation the moment he got it because of the condition attached to it.

“Dress Code: A complimentary shirt will be provided on the day for you to wear. We’ll also be able to make official images available immediately following the event for editorial use,” she said the condition on the invite reads.

However, the dress code on the invite was “black tie/elegant” for other guests.

Despite the controversy surrounding the event, the launch marked a new philanthropic milestone for award-winning singer Tiwa Savage, born Tiwatope Savage.

After building a successful music career that began with the release of her debut album Once Upon a Time on July 3, 2013, the singer is expanding her influence beyond entertainment through philanthropic initiatives.

The Tiwa Savage Music Foundation aims to support and empower creatives across the music ecosystem, including artists, songwriters, producers, sound engineers, and music executives.
In collaboration with her alma mater, Berklee College of Music, the foundation plans to offer a flagship programme that will provide free education, access to world-class training materials, and mentorship opportunities for 100 participants selected on merit.