Famakin made the remarks while speaking in a video, where he explained his belief that giving money or assistance to people who have nothing could sometimes lead to a sense of entitlement.
According to him, some beneficiaries may begin to view their benefactors as permanent sources of financial support, returning repeatedly whenever they are in need.
“Nigerians have created something called ‘my helper.’ Once you help someone, they see you as, ‘Oh, this person is my helper.’ When I need something, this person is the person that I can always run to. When you give them free, and you stop giving them, they will start misbehaving. I believe it is better to help people who already have than to help those who have nothing,” he stated.
Famakin further argued that wealthy people may be more appreciative of assistance because they are less likely to depend on the person who helped them for subsequent financial support.
He acknowledged that his position could attract criticism, particularly in a society where helping people in need is widely regarded as an important social responsibility.
“When you help a rich person, you are less likely to physically get something from that person immediately, but the person will pay you back. There will be goodwill, they can do things for you, they will be nice to you. But the reality is that I help a poor man and he creates a ‘my helper’ because I helped this person. Because I dashed a poor person money 10 years ago, this guy will still come back. I said what I said, and I stand by those words,” he added.
His comments have sparked debate over the nature of generosity, financial assistance and the expectations that sometimes develop between benefactors and beneficiaries.
While some may interpret his position as a criticism of dependency, others could question the broad distinction he draws between wealthy and poor people and whether economic status necessarily determines how an individual responds to assistance.
Famakin, however, maintained his position, arguing that his experience has shaped his preference for helping people who already have some level of financial stability rather than those he believes may become dependent on his support.