UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, has sparked discussion online after correcting a young woman who addressed him by his first name during an interactive session at the bank’s Graduate Management Accelerated Programme graduation ceremony.
In a video from the event, the woman began her interaction by saying, “Good morning, Tony.” Elumelu initially appeared to misunderstand her, before she clarified that she was referring to him as Tony.
The businessman then told her that she should address him as either “Mr Elumelu” or “TOE,” rather than by his first name.
The graduate accepted the correction, addressed him as Mr Elumelu and continued with her question.
The exchange has since generated mixed reactions on social media, with Nigerians debating whether employees should use first names when speaking to senior executives.
Some users argued that formal titles are more appropriate when addressing senior figures during official events, particularly when the relationship between both parties has not established such familiarity.
Others, however, defended the graduate, pointing out that first-name communication is common in many modern corporate organisations, where employees are sometimes encouraged to interact with senior executives without formal titles.
The incident occurred as UBA celebrated 374 participants who completed its Graduate Management Accelerated Programme.
The bank described the graduates as emerging professionals being prepared to take on leadership responsibilities across its African operations.
Elumelu had also celebrated the programme, noting that it has trained thousands of young professionals over the years.
UBA congratulated the latest graduates and encouraged them to approach their careers with purpose, courage and a commitment to making a positive impact.
The video of the interaction continues to generate conversations about workplace etiquette, corporate culture and the balance between modern professional practices and traditional forms of respect.
