Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage recently opened up about the constant criticism she faces for her bold fashion choices, particularly due to her age. Speaking on a recent episode of the Receipts podcast, the 44-year-old mother revealed the frustrating double standards she experiences as a prominent figure in Nigerian entertainment.
Savage explained that, while global icons like Beyoncé are celebrated for maintaining their beauty and confidence in their 40s, Nigerians often resort to age-shaming her for dressing boldly. “They age-shame me every single day,” she lamented. “They say, ‘A woman of your age, how can you be wearing a bikini?’ I can because I have a body.”
The Double Standard: Nigerian vs. International Perspectives
Tiwa’s comments highlight a stark contrast in how female celebrities are perceived across cultures. For instance, American fans of Beyoncé often applaud her for looking stunning in revealing outfits, describing it as a celebration of “Black don’t crack.” However, Tiwa’s boldness in rocking similar outfits draws criticism back home, with detractors focusing on her age and questioning her role as a mother.
“But they [Nigerians] always throw these things like, ‘When her son grows up, he’s going to see this,’” Tiwa said, defending herself by expressing confidence that her son would admire her strength and beauty.
Why Does Nigerian Society Age-Shame Women?
Ageism and societal expectations for women, especially in Africa, are deeply rooted. Women in their 40s are often expected to conform to conservative roles, emphasizing modesty and motherhood above personal expression. When women like Tiwa Savage break these stereotypes, they are met with backlash.
This isn’t just limited to fashion. Many female Nigerian celebrities face similar criticism when pursuing ambitious careers or taking risks deemed “unfitting” for their age. For men, however, society tends to turn a blind eye, allowing them to explore their individuality without judgment.
The Bigger Picture: Changing Narratives for Women
Tiwa’s stance resonates with a broader movement advocating for the freedom of women to live authentically, regardless of societal expectations. By standing her ground and owning her choices, Tiwa challenges Nigerian society to rethink its biases about age, motherhood, and self-expression.
Her experiences also serve as a rallying cry for Nigerian women to embrace their individuality unapologetically. If global icons like Beyoncé can receive accolades for celebrating their confidence at any age, why can’t Nigerian women like Tiwa Savage do the same?
Tiwa Savage’s reflections on the age-shaming she endures shed light on a larger cultural issue. Her courage in addressing these criticisms publicly is a step toward normalizing conversations about age, fashion, and the evolving roles of women in society.
It’s high time Nigerians celebrated their icons for their talent, confidence, and authenticity—without succumbing to outdated stereotypes. As Tiwa put it, “My son is going to be like, my mum is a powerful and beautiful woman.” And indeed, she is.
