The "Calm Down" crooner shared this perspective during a recent interaction with content creator Enzo. The exchange began when Rema encouraged Enzo to get a tattoo, similar to his own. However, Enzo expressed reservations, citing his mother's likely disapproval. He recounted an instance where his mother reportedly held a grudge against him for several days simply because he braided his hair, highlighting a potentially strict parental dynamic.
In response to Enzo's concern, Rema offered a rather pragmatic piece of advice, urging him to prioritize financial success. "Don’t worry, you just need to hustle a little bit more. Wait till you cash out big. Nigerian parents don’t advise breadwinners," Rema stated, implying that financial contribution often supersedes traditional parental expectations or disciplinary actions.
Rema's assertion carries weight, considering his own personal experiences. The award-winning artist has previously openly shared that he assumed the role of the breadwinner for his family at a young age, following the passing of his father. He revealed a significant milestone in his early career, stating that he earned his first million Naira at the age of 17 and entrusted the entire sum to his mother. This personal history likely informs his belief about the influence of financial contribution on parental attitudes within Nigerian households.
While Rema's statement may resonate with some individuals who have experienced similar dynamics within their families, it's important to acknowledge the diversity of parenting styles and cultural values across Nigeria. Parental reactions can be influenced by a multitude of factors beyond financial contributions, including cultural norms, religious beliefs, individual personalities, and the specific nature of the "chastised" behavior.
Nevertheless, Rema's claim touches upon a potentially significant socio-economic dynamic within some Nigerian families, where the practical realities of financial support can sometimes reshape traditional parent-child relationships and expectations. His perspective offers a thought-provoking lens through which to consider the complex interplay between cultural norms, financial responsibility, and parental authority in the Nigerian context.