Tiwa Savage Responds to Age Criticism: “I’m 45, You Can’t Throw Shade at Me”

January 19, 2026

Nigerian music icon Tiwa Savage has addressed public commentary surrounding her age, stating clearly that being 45 years old is not something she considers an insult or a weakness.

The award winning singer made the statement while responding to online remarks that attempted to mock or discredit her by referencing her age, a recurring issue faced by women in the entertainment industry.

“I’m 45,” Tiwa Savage said. “You can’t throw shade at me by mentioning my age.”

Her comments have since sparked widespread reactions across social media, with fans and fellow entertainers praising her confidence and openness.

Tiwa Savage, born Tiwatope Savage, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential female musicians. With a career spanning more than a decade, she has played a defining role in taking Afrobeats to the global stage.

The singer’s response comes amid ongoing discussions about age discrimination in the music industry, particularly the pressure placed on female artists to remain youthful in appearance while male counterparts often continue their careers without similar scrutiny.

For Tiwa, age represents growth, experience and achievement rather than decline.

She explained that she is proud of her journey and unapologetic about her reality, noting that every stage of her life has contributed to who she is today.

Since breaking into the Nigerian music scene in the early 2010s, Tiwa Savage has achieved milestones few African female artists have matched. She has won numerous awards, signed international recording deals, collaborated with global stars and performed on some of the world’s biggest stages.

Her catalogue includes hit songs such as All Over, Ma Lo, Koroba, Somebody’s Son and Water and Garri, tracks that have shaped modern Afrobeats.

Beyond music, Tiwa Savage has become a symbol of confidence, resilience and women empowerment across Africa and the diaspora.

Industry observers say her decision to openly state her age challenges long standing stereotypes that women must hide their years to remain relevant.

In African pop culture, age is often treated as a sensitive subject for women, especially those in the public eye. Many choose silence, but Tiwa’s honesty has shifted the narrative.

Fans applauded her for normalising ageing and rejecting unrealistic expectations.

One fan wrote online that Tiwa at 45 is still global, still trending and still dominating the industry.

Another described her as living proof that talent and discipline matter more than numbers.

Tiwa Savage has previously spoken about the difficulties of balancing motherhood with fame. As a single mother to her son Jamil, she has often highlighted the emotional and professional pressures women face.

Despite these challenges, she has continued to evolve creatively.

In recent years, she has expanded her sound, blending Afrobeats with R and B, soul and alternative influences, proving her adaptability and artistic maturity.

Her 2021 project Water and Garri gained international recognition and was later adapted into a short film that premiered on Amazon Prime Video.

Music critics say her longevity comes from consistency and authenticity.

They note that she does not chase trends but adapts naturally while staying true to her identity.

Tiwa’s statement has also resonated beyond the entertainment industry, touching on broader societal issues surrounding how women are judged by age.

Across social media, women shared experiences of facing similar criticisms in workplaces, relationships and public life.

Many described her words as empowering and freeing.

Supporters say she is redefining what success looks like for women over 40, proving that creativity and relevance do not expire.

Tiwa Savage’s influence extends into fashion, philanthropy and mentorship. She continues to inspire young women to embrace confidence and self worth.

Her journey from being a backup singer in the United States to becoming Africa’s leading female Afrobeats star remains one of the continent’s most inspiring success stories.

At 45, she continues to headline international festivals, collaborate with younger artists and remain one of the most streamed African female musicians worldwide.

Observers say her presence challenges the outdated belief that youth determines relevance.

For Tiwa Savage, longevity is the real achievement.

Her message is clear. Age is not a weakness. It is evidence of survival, growth and success.

As the global music industry continues to evolve, Tiwa Savage stands as proof that confidence, talent and self belief transcend age.

Her response to critics has become more than a personal statement. It is a reminder that ageing is not something to hide but something to own with pride.