The question of how respect should be expressed across generations and cultures has resurfaced in public discourse, following two notable moments, one contemporary, the other historical, that continue to spark debate.
Tony Elumelu’s Viral Exchange and Corporate Etiquette
In 2026, a video featuring Tony Elumelu, Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA), went viral after a young graduate addressed him by his first name, “Tony.” Elumelu swiftly corrected her, insisting that he should be addressed as “Mr. Elumelu” or by his initials, “TOE.”
The incident divided opinion online. Supporters praised Elumelu’s response as a necessary reminder of respect, hierarchy, and professionalism in corporate settings. Critics, however, argued that the young graduate may have been influenced by modern workplace culture, where informality and first-name address are increasingly common, especially in global corporations that emphasize flat structures and inclusivity.
The debate highlights a broader tension: how should young professionals balance traditional expectations of respect with evolving norms of corporate culture?
Maya Angelou’s 1990 Interview and Generational Etiquette
A similar moment occurred decades earlier in 1990, when celebrated poet and author Dr. Maya Angelou corrected a young woman during an appearance on KPIX-TV’s People Are Talking. At 62 years old, Angelou insisted she be addressed as “Miss Angelou” or “Dr. Angelou,” emphasizing that titles reflect respect for elders.
Her response underscored the cultural importance of honoring age and experience, while also sparking debate. Many saw her correction as a timeless lesson in discipline and dignity, while others felt her tone was stern, raising questions about how respect should be taught and enforced across generations.
Recall, Dr. Maya Angelou was an influential American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, born Marguerite Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri. She spent much of her childhood in Stamps, Arkansas, where she was raised by her grandmother after her parents separated. Angelou is best known for her autobiographical works, including “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” which explores her early life and experiences. She was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and received numerous awards and honors throughout her career
Cultural Intersection: Africa and the West
Both incidents, Elumelu’s corporate exchange and Angelou’s televised correction, illustrate the cultural weight attached to titles and forms of address. In African societies, respect for elders is deeply embedded in tradition, often expressed through honorifics, gestures, and language. In Western contexts, while respect remains valued, modern workplace culture increasingly leans toward informality, encouraging first-name interactions to foster openness and equality.
The viral debates show that respect is not only cultural but situational. In corporate boardrooms, titles may reinforce professionalism and hierarchy. In creative or academic spaces, they may affirm dignity and achievement. Yet, in modern globalized contexts, informality is often seen as a way to break barriers and encourage collaboration.
The Larger Lesson
Ultimately, both Elumelu and Angelou remind us that respect is not merely about titles, it is about recognizing the humanity, experience, and contributions of others. The challenge for younger generations lies in navigating these expectations with sensitivity, balancing tradition with modernity, and ensuring that respect remains central, even as cultural norms evolve.
See Maya and Elumelu’s videos below:
About the Author
Emmanuel Ajibulu is an infopreneur, writer, communication consultant, and social media influencer. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com), a general-purpose online news platform. In addition to his editorial work, he provides expertise in strategic communications, digital engagement, and thought leadership. Emmanuel is passionate about shaping narratives that drive social impact and corporate excellence. He can be reached via veracitydesk@gmail.com or emmanuelajibulu@gmail.com.
