Afrobeats sensation Tiwa Savage has spoken out against the relentless criticism she faces for her fashion choices, particularly from Nigerians who age-shame her. The star expressed her frustrations during a recent appearance on the *Receipts* podcast, highlighting the cultural double standards around women’s appearance as they age.
Tiwa pointed out that international stars like Beyoncé, also in her 40s, are praised for their confidence and beauty when wearing bikinis, while she is often shamed for doing the same. “They say, ‘A woman of your age, how can you be wearing a bikini?’ I can, because I have a body,” she stated emphatically.
The singer criticized the different cultural attitudes, noting that in America, women like Beyoncé are celebrated for looking good as they age, with remarks like, “Black don’t crack.” In contrast, Nigerians often question her choices and bring her son into the conversation, suggesting that he might be embarrassed. Tiwa dismissed this notion, saying, “My son will grow up knowing his mum is a powerful and beautiful woman.”
She also expressed disappointment in how societal norms in Nigeria discourage women from embracing their confidence as they grow older. For Tiwa, staying true to herself and owning her narrative is non-negotiable, regardless of the critics.