Call me Tony: A parable of corporate Nigeria, By Temitope Lakisokun

A seemingly minor incident involving a young trainee addressing UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu by his first name has ignited a surprisingly revealing debate across Nigerian society about respect, hierarchy, and modernity. The core of the discussion revolves around whether the trainee was disrespectful or simply adhered to a perceived "first-name culture" within the company.

However, the article argues that focusing solely on the politeness of the address misses a larger point. The awkwardness stems from a borrowed convention, initially intended to soften hierarchy, which has become misapplied across generations. The author suggests that modernity does not necessitate abandoning the reasons behind certain social conventions. Respect and equality, as well as warmth and formality, can coexist.

This situation is framed as a parable for corporate Nigeria, reflecting a broader challenge of "second-order thinking" – considering the long-term consequences of changes. The article draws a parallel to the 1975 dismissals of civil servants by Murtala Mohammed. Many diligent workers, who had served loyally without accumulating private wealth, were left destitute. This event, the author contends, institutionalized corruption as survivors learned that loyalty offered no protection, prompting them to secure themselves regardless of the cost.

The "Great First-name Revolution" is traced back to the 1980s and 1990s when Nigerian executives, influenced by American business schools, adopted practices like first-name usage to reduce excessive deference. While intended to foster open communication and challenge rigid hierarchies, the article implies these imported ideas have not always been thoughtfully integrated, leading to generational friction and a potential disconnect from the underlying cultural values that once provided social stability.