"You Won't Call Me Tony, You'll Call Me Mr. Elumelu" – Tony Elumelu Corrects Graduate Trainee
Nigerian billionaire and philanthropist Tony Elumelu has corrected a graduate trainee who addressed him by his first name, insisting that he should be referred to as "Mr. Elumelu" rather than "Tony."
"You Won't Call Me Tony, You'll Call Me Mr. Elumelu" – Tony Elumelu Corrects Graduate Trainee
The moment was captured in a video that has since gone viral, showing the businessman firmly but politely correcting the trainee during an interaction. "You won't call me Tony. You'll call me Mr. Elumelu. I don't subscribe to that kind of oyibo life," he said, making it clear that he prefers to be addressed formally, especially in professional settings.
The correction, which was delivered with a hint of humour, reflects Elumelu's commitment to maintaining a professional culture, even in informal interactions, and his belief that respect and formality are essential to maintaining a professional culture.
The billionaire's insistence on formality is a departure from the casual approach to addressing public figures that has become increasingly common in Nigeria.
Many public figures prefer to be addressed by their first names to appear more approachable and relatable. However, Elumelu's position suggests that he values tradition and respect, particularly in a professional setting.
"I don't subscribe to that kind of oyibo life," he said, implying that he is not interested in adopting the casual Western approach to addressing elders or superiors.
The video has sparked a range of reactions on social media, with some commending Elumelu for maintaining professional boundaries and others questioning the need for such formality.
One social media user wrote, "Mr. Elumelu is right. We need to learn to respect our elders and superiors in the workplace," while another argued, "We are in a modern age. First-name basis is not disrespectful."
The debate highlights the ongoing tension between traditional values and modern sensibilities in Nigeria's professional culture, with many grappling with the appropriate way to address superiors in the workplace.
Despite the mixed reactions, Tony Elumelu has made his position clear: he expects to be addressed with respect and formality, and he is not willing to compromise on that principle.
His stance serves as a reminder that while modernisation is important, it should not come at the expense of respect and professionalism.
As one of Nigeria's most successful and respected entrepreneurs, his views carry significant weight and are likely to influence the way younger professionals approach workplace etiquette.
Source: TrendyBeatz
