Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has expressed her sentiments about being addressed by her first name by younger individuals, deeming it disrespectful. In a recent episode of the “Me, Her And Everything Else” podcast, the actress also disclosed her irritation when greeted with a casual “Hi” accompanied by a wave from younger people.
Acknowledging the cultural diversity across the globe, Bello recognized the influence of cultures and upbringings on varying greeting norms. Despite this acknowledgment, she emphasized her preference for being addressed as “Ma’am” rather than by her first name, Shaffy.
Addressing how she navigates situations where younger individuals address her informally, Bello shared her response strategy. She conveyed a simple yet firm message with a touch of warmth, stating, “Usually my response is simple, and I say it with love. I pull them close and I tell them, ‘You haven’t earned the right to call me by my name. I have a child as old as you are. Even if I didn’t have children, you haven’t earned the right, and you would never earn the right at your age to call me by my name.”
