Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage has opened up about her intentional approach to single parenting, stressing the importance of raising her son with ambition, humility, and a strong work ethic despite her fame and success.
In a candid post shared via her Instagram story, the award-winning singer echoed the words of business leader Ibukun Awosika, who cautioned parents against allowing wealth and privilege to stifle their children’s drive and passion.
Savage revealed that she deliberately ensures her 10-year-old son, Jamil, is exposed to experiences that encourage gratitude and hard work, including flying economy class on commercial flights and earning privileges through discipline and performance.
“Do not kill your children’s dreams by using your success to kill their ambition,” she quoted Awosika, explaining that constant luxury can deprive children of the hunger needed to pursue their dreams. According to her, a dream should be bigger than one’s reality and fuelled by desire rather than comfort.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Tiwa recounted how Jamil reacted unhappily the last time he flew in economy class, complaining of discomfort despite his young age. She said the experience was part of a conscious effort to teach him resilience and perspective.
The singer also disclosed that her son must now earn rewards such as gaming purchases by completing household chores or achieving good grades. Additionally, Jamil is restricted from using his iPad or consuming snacks and candy during the week, and participates in nightly Bible study sessions before bed.
Tiwa Savage emphasized that while Jamil is naturally well-behaved, her parenting choices are deliberate and rooted in love. “I am intentional about setting a good foundation for him,” she said, describing the process as “real love” aimed at shaping a grounded and motivated future adult.
