Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has lambasted the culture of begging in Nigeria, which is on the rise, urging Nigerians to desist from an attitude of entitlement and work to earn their living.
During a recent episode of Activating Success With Love Idoko, the actress expressed her opinion, noting how important it was to take personal responsibility and make efforts to meet one’s needs as a Nigerian.
Many Nigerians have forgotten that life is supposed to be lived in real time; they take opportunities for granted, and they think that they have to be taken care of by other people,” Omotola said.
“No one has a duty to give you anything! Nigerians have today become a culture of beggars!” she said.
The actress said, “Everyone has their needs, everyone has some type of problems, no matter how much money they have. While it is okay to feel sad about financial problems, she said, it shouldn’t mean that one is entitled to receive money or help from others.
Omotola also said that there is always something valuable for people to offer, as Nigerians should be able to find their potential and seek avenues to make a living.
Omotola speaks against entitlement
The actress also stated that she doesn’t believe in begging unless someone is in danger of being killed.
People ought to try to resolve their issues instead of relying on other people with money to solve them, she said.
Omotola admitted that she also has a need which may make her turn to others for help. But she noted that “no one should have to fill the needs of someone who has their own set of needs,” she added.
Even if it is up to them to plead, it must be a matter of life and death,” she said.
She also emphasized that depending on others to give them money all the time could also have an impact on their self-esteem, especially if the money is expected to be given by others.
The actress advised people to only ask for help when they truly need it and not put the burden on others to take care of them.
Omotola’s comments spark conversations about begging
Omotola’s comments have raised issues of financial dependency, self-responsibility, and increasing pressure on individuals to survive a day.
Her remarks also reference the distinction between seeking assistance in a true crisis and demanding financial assistance as a right.
Although many Nigerians are still struggling to get their economic lives on track, the actress’ stance is that people need to make the best out of what they have and add value at every avenue.
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde is a veteran actress in Nigeria and one of the most recognized in Nollywood. She is well known for her contribution to the Nigerian Film Industry and is one of the most vocal voices on social issues.
