Award-winning Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has sparked conversations on parenting after revealing the intentional steps she is taking to raise her son, Jamil, with discipline, structure and strong values, despite her wealth and access to luxury.
Reacting to comments by Pastor Awosika on parenting and ambition, Tiwa shared her personal approach, stressing that success should not remove a child’s hunger for growth, effort and purpose.
Quoting the pastor, Tiwa wrote on her Instagram story:
“Pastor Awosika: ‘Do not kill your children’s dream by using your success to kill their ambition.’”
She explained that children who grow up with constant access to luxury may lose passion and drive if they are never challenged.
“If they always have everyone and they’ve lived such a luxurious life, they might grow up without passion, drive, ambition — and you have to have a need or lack of something to drive you to pursue your dream,” she wrote.
Tiwa added that ambition must stretch beyond comfort.
“A dream should be something bigger than your reality. Something you wish you had that you don’t already.”
The singer then revealed that she has already begun applying these principles in raising Jamil, especially when it comes to everyday experiences.
“Coincidentally this is something I have started with Jamil. Apart from when we fly private. When we do fly commercial I have started putting him in economy,” she said.
Tiwa recalled a moment that tested her resolve as a parent.
“Last time we flew and he was in economy he was upset with me, I had to keep going back and checking on him (mind you he was with his nanny o). He said he was having neck pains and he couldn’t stretch his legs, someone that his legs are still short it can’t even touch the front seat.”
Beyond travel, the singer noted that her son must now earn rewards, rather than receive them automatically.
“Now if he wants to buy Roblox he has to earn it by doing house chores or when he gets good grades,” she revealed.
Tiwa also shared that Jamil’s routine includes clear boundaries at home.
“He is not allowed iPad, snacks or candy during the week. Bible study every night before bed. Thanks aunty @fenellz for introducing us to that.”
Concluding her message, Tiwa described her parenting style as an act of love, not punishment.
“Jamil is actually a really good kid though but I am intentional about setting a good foundation for him (that’s real love).”
Her post has since drawn praise from parents and fans who described her approach as balanced, intentional and inspiring in a time when many children grow up surrounded by excess.