Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has criticised what she described as a growing culture of begging in Nigeria, urging citizens to embrace hard work, develop their skills and take advantage of available opportunities rather than adopt an entitlement mentality.
The actress made the remarks during a recent episode of Activating Success With Love Idoko, where she expressed concern that some Nigerians take opportunities for granted and expect others to meet their financial needs.
Omotola said individuals should recognise their ability to contribute meaningfully to society, regardless of their circumstances, and seek legitimate ways to earn a living.
“A lot of Nigerians take opportunities for granted. And one thing we have to understand is that nobody owes you anything. Nigerians now have a culture of begging,” she said.
She maintained that everyone has something valuable to offer and encouraged Nigerians to identify their strengths and use them to create opportunities for themselves.
“I believe that there is no reason why anybody can’t work. There is something you can do. There is a kind of value you can bring to humanity,” she added.
The actress acknowledged that financial difficulties affect people across different social and economic backgrounds but stressed the importance of finding ways to overcome such challenges instead of routinely depending on others for assistance.
According to her, begging should be limited to desperate circumstances, particularly situations involving life and death, rather than becoming a habit or an expectation that others must provide financial support.
Omotola also warned that repeatedly asking others for money could undermine a person’s dignity and sense of self-worth, urging Nigerians to avoid making financial demands with a sense of entitlement.
“Try as much as you can not to beg and be a nuisance. Begging reduces your own self-worth. If you must beg, let it be in a desperate situation. And don’t do it with entitlement,” she said.
Her comments have renewed attention to personal responsibility, financial dependence and the need for sustainable livelihoods amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.