Let The Young Breathe: A Deep Dive On Age Discrimination In Nigeria
In Nigeria, age isn’t just a number — it’s a tool of authority. The idea that older people are automatically wiser and more deserving of respect, no matter their actions, has created a toxic culture where age is mistaken for value, and where power often rests in the hands of the least innovative.
And “respect” is one of the most weaponized cultural ideals—it’s less about value or merit and more about age. This age-based hierarchy runs deep in our homes, schools, offices, religious spaces, and even government. It shapes how we treat each other, how decisions are made, and ultimately, how much progress is allowed to happen.
The Culture of “I’m Older Than You”
In most Nigerian homes, a child is taught from a very young age that challenging or even questioning an elder is disrespectful—even if the elder is clearly wrong. This cultural norm doesn’t end at home. It shows up in:
Family dynamics: A younger sibling or cousin cannot correct an older one, regardless of who is right. Then the older older ones often don't reciprocate or abuse the respect their given and It no longer becomes respect but bully.
Workplaces: A younger manager is rarely respected if their subordinates are older. In fact, they’re often subtly sabotaged or mocked with phrases like, “Na small pikin dey give us orders now? Wetin en know”
Imagine a young, brilliant professional suggesting a new approach in a meeting, only to be dismissed with “You’re too young to understand.” In many workplaces and institutions, this is not just common — it’s expected.
Schools: Younger teachers are dismissed by older staff and given very little respect, regardless of qualification or impact.
Religion: A young pastor or imam is less likely to be taken seriously, even with clear spiritual understanding.
Politics and governance: Young people are constantly told to “wait their turn,” even though the country is currently suffering from decades of recycled leadership that refuses to let go.
Seniority over innovation. Age over results. And that’s why many companies, universities, and even government agencies remain stagnant. It’s not that the ideas of the older generation are always bad — it’s that the system doesn't allow those ideas to be challenged, improved, or updated.
The result? A culture that fears questioning, punishes boldness, and praises submission.
Professionalism vs. Age
In more advanced systems, value is placed on competence, discipline, and innovation. But in Nigeria, it’s still largely about seniority, grey hairs, and who got there first. From family houses to government seats, the older generation often act like gatekeepers of tradition — not progress.
If you disagree with them, you’re “disrespectful.”
If you challenge their views, you’re “rude.”
If you dare to take a different path, you’re “arrogant” or “too ambitious.”
They claim to protect culture, but in reality, many are protecting their egos and maintaining control. It’s a psychological chokehold — one where being right is less important than being obeyed.
Let’s look at some scenarios:
A 29-year-old Nigerian tech founder with innovative ideas is invited to a government meeting. He begins to explain a plan to digitize parts of the public sector. Midway, an older delegate cuts him off:
“Young man, I was in this place before you were born. Don’t come and teach us how to do our job.” That’s how ideas die.
In a corporate boardroom, a young analyst discovers a better process for cutting costs and improving efficiency. But his older boss doesn’t approve it because,
“That’s not how we do things here. This boy sef, too dey forward.”
In families, many parents still force their adult children into careers, marriages, or decisions because, “I’ve lived longer than you. I know what’s best.” This isn’t respect. It’s suppression.
The Elder’s Omniscience Problem
One of the most dangerous myths in Nigeria is the idea that elders are always right. But wisdom doesn’t always come with age — sometimes, it comes with exposure, study, failure, and adaptation.
Many Nigerian elders believe their age gives them an automatic knowledge on everything. Being older doesn’t mean you’re always right—and refusing correction because of age is a dangerous flaw, not a strength.
This is part of the reason why Corruption continues unchecked, Innovation is hindered, Young leaders are shut out and Progress is slow. They say, “What an elder sees sitting down, a child cannot see standing up.” But what if that child has Google, data, satellite view, and lived experience in a different world?
What’s even more ironic is that this mindset — of always thinking they’re right — is what leads to repeated mistakes. How can one grow if they refuse to admit being wrong? How can a country evolve if its leaders see questioning as rebellion ?
Nigeria has changed. The world has changed. But many of our elders are still ruling with the mindset of the 1970s.
The Claws of the Elders
This isn’t about disrespect — it’s about balance. If we want to rebuild Nigeria, the elders must remove their claws from its future to those with the vision, energy, and ideas to carry it forward. It’s not enough to advise from the sidelines. They must learn to:
Mentor, not dominate.
Step aside when needed
Respect merit over age
Support and mentor, not suppress
Admit when they are wrong
Be open to learning from the younger generation
The future cannot be built on outdated ideologies. Respect should be earned through contribution, character, and competence — not who came into the earth first.
Because if we keep operating on a system of age instead of a culture of competence, the most capable minds will always be sidelined.
Respect Should Be Earned, Not Assumed
Respecting someone’s age is noble. But respecting ignorance, arrogance, or incompetence simply because it’s wrapped in grey hair is damaging. If we want a better Nigeria, we must start placing value above age, and contribution above tradition.
If you liked this article, follow us so you don't miss out when we drop another amazing articles!.. as always leave your questions in the comments and we'll love to answer them... See you soon 🥰
Comments
Post a Comment