Drama At UNGA: Nigerians Buzz as Tiwa Savage’s Bold Gesture To Osinbajo Sparks Reactions

Nigerian music icon Tiwa Savage has stirred widespread online reactions after exchanging warm, culturally respectful greetings with former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

In a viral video circulating on social media, the brief yet symbolic encounter drew notable attention from attendees. The Afrobeats superstar was seen greeting Osinbajo in a traditional Nigerian manner, blending culture with diplomacy at the global event.

Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad, who shared the clip on , praised the gesture, writing:
“Culture is a thing of pride in this part of the world. Look at how Tiwa Savage culturally greets Prof. Yemi Osinbajo on the sidelines of the UNGA in New York.”

The video sparked diverse reactions from netizens:

• @btunddej: “That’s how we were raised. Bowing or kneeling doesn’t diminish us; it commands respect.”

• @jelhill: “Notice the difference between Tiwa’s greeting of Osinbajo and those sycophants greeting Tinubu. She knelt, stood up, and took her seat. The others remained glued to the floor.”

• @B_Lawz: “Yet @TeniEntertainer felt too big to bend the knee when awarded M.O.N. It is well with this generation.”

• @OMONIGERIA1: “This is our upbringing. A proper omoluabi won’t look elders in the eyes. See how she avoids eye contact.”

• @skymanbrt: “ As it should be. Tiwa has achieved so much on her own, yet still honors our culture. God bless you Mama Jam Jam.”

• @M_Chiggy: “Enjoy your culture. Don’t compare. This same Tiwa won’t bow to Jay-Z or elders from other traditions.”

• @AdemidunAkintu1: “She must represent Omoluabi wherever she goes. If not, we’ll correct her from here. Call it dragging, but the message must be passed.”

• @cookedbygod: “And so? When CP knelt for Shettima, did you praise him or mock him? Same thing.”