Afrobeats superstar Rema has sparked social media debate after asserting that Nigerian parents tend to be more lenient with children who financially support their families. The “Calm Down” crooner made the controversial statement during a recent chat with content creator Enzo.
The discussion arose when Enzo expressed fears about his mother’s reaction to getting tattoos, recalling how she gave him days of silent treatment merely for braiding his hair. “My mum won’t let me get a tattoo. The time I did braids, she didn’t talk to me for days,” Enzo confessed.
Rema, 23, responded with what many are calling a brutally honest perspective on Nigerian family dynamics: “Don’t worry, you just need to hustle more. Wait till you cash out big. Nigerian parents don’t advise breadwinners.”
The singer’s comments draw from personal experience – he became his family’s primary provider as a teenager following his father’s death. In previous interviews, Rema revealed he earned his first million naira at 17 and gave the entire sum to his mother rather than spending it on himself.
Social media reactions have been divided since the clip went viral. Some users applauded Rema for highlighting an unspoken truth in many Nigerian households, while others criticized the generalization.
“Nigerian parents will forgive tattoos, piercings and even bad behavior once the alerts start coming in regularly,” tweeted @NaijaBoyTalks, supporting Rema’s view.
However, family therapist Dr. Adeola Williams cautioned against this perspective: “Financial contribution shouldn’t erase parental guidance. This mentality puts undue pressure on young earners and creates unhealthy family power dynamics.”
The debate continues as more Nigerians share personal stories either confirming or contradicting Rema’s observation about the changing parent-child relationship in money-dependent households.
Rema, currently on his international tour, hasn’t expanded on his comments but has historically been open about his early financial responsibilities and how they shaped his adulthood. The singer’s journey from teenage breadwinner to global superstar continues resonating with many young Nigerians facing similar family pressures.
