UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu has corrected a newly recruited graduate trainee after she addressed him simply as “Tony” during the induction of 5,000 new employees of the bank.
The incident occurred during the induction programme when one of the new employees took the microphone and referred to the business executive by his first name.
Elumelu, who appeared surprised by the manner in which he was addressed, asked the trainee to correct herself.
However, when she was given another opportunity to address him, she again referred to him as “Tony.”
In a video of the exchange circulating on social media, Elumelu explained that he preferred to be addressed respectfully, noting that he did not subscribe to what he described as “Oyinbo” culture.
The exchange has sparked reactions online, with social media users debating workplace etiquette, generational differences and whether senior executives should be addressed by their first names in Nigeria’s corporate environment.
Some Gen Zs and their uncouth manners. 😂😂 Imagine ET calling the GCEO by his first name keh! 😭 Orisirisi. Fear no even catch her. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/YP0uQmI4Ik
— H.A.N.E.E.F.A.H✨🌹❣️ (@Haneefahjumoke) August 20, 2026
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