I still remember a while ago, an incident involving Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka and a young man on an airplane sparked widespread discussion across social media. While the exact details remain debated, one undeniable truth stands out: respect, a cornerstone of African culture, is rapidly eroding.
In my own Yoruba culture, from southwestern Nigeria, respect for elders is deeply rooted. Traditionally, younger people kneel or prostrate themselves when greeting elders. Though modernization has rendered some customs less common.
Respect is non-negotiable.
The young man on the plane was technically in the right, having previously booked the seat now occupied by the elder. Yet beyond rules and rights lies a greater principle: the humility to honour others. Had circumstances allowed, he might have yielded the seat out of respect, just as he would for a loved one.
This decline in respect is painfully clear in everyday life. My late mother before her demise, shared a disheartening experience: while queuing in a public place, mostly surrounded by youths in their twenties and thirties, no one offered her a seat or even acknowledged her presence. At one point, she leaned on a seat for support, only to be rudely pushed away. Like many African mothers, she believes in karma and suspected this was a reflection of society’s growing disrespect for elders. I assured her I had never behaved disrespectfully, this is simply a new reality.
Today’s youth are often quick to assert their rights but fail to honor those who came before them. Many serve as political thugs or touts for older leaders rather than striving for legitimate leadership themselves. This is a far cry from genuine respect and maturity.
Respect is more than a fading tradition, it is the foundation of societal harmony and longevity. As Africans, rich in culture and wisdom, we must reclaim this vital value before it disappears entirely.
Born as Titilayo Oladimeji, I have been known by the nickname Titipetral for nearly two decades. I am a Financial Advisor at a reputable financial institution in Lagos, Nigeria, with over 10 years of experience in Financial Advisory and Credit Analysis. I am also an author and the founder of Titipetral Publishers, a duly registered publishing company.
In addition, I lead the Titipetral Empowerment and Development Network (TEDN), a duly registered philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting underprivileged girls, boys, women, and men in the Alimosho area, Nigeria’s most populated local government, focusing on serving the underserved.
For inquiries or collaboration, you can reach me at Titilayooladimeji@titipetral.com or titipetral@gmail.com.