There’s a place for well-thought-out speeches and for being “cool”
Call me cynical but I just couldn’t hold back on this one.
Last Saturday, the 7th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) held in Lagos. For an event that is really about exchanging plaques, the hosts, the banter or chemistry between presenters and the acceptance speeches are critical to entertaining and keeping the audience glued.
Some of us seriously look forward to the speeches whether it is The Academy Awards, Golden Globes or AMVCA because they inspire us for years unending and endear us more to the movie stars.
In the past, there have been a few inspirational speeches at the AMVCAs. Yvonne Bassey and O.C Ukeje stole our hearts with their acceptance speeches at the 2015 AMVCA. Even host IK Osakioduwa had to praise Ms Bassey after her speech. The next year, 2016, it was Adesua Wellington — then Etomi — who did after winning “Best Actress.” This year, apart from Steve Gukas, none stood out.
However, that’s not the story. The story is about reality TV stars who have become very big celebrities and role models for millennials.
At last Saturday’s event, a former reality TV star had the opportunity to present an award on an Africa stage. It left a bitter taste in my mouth. First off, this gentleman’s attempt at small talk with his co-presenter fell flat on his face — he could learn a thing or two from Eku Edewor and Mawuli Gavor. Then when he looked up at the crowd and said “you guys,” I cringed in further disapproval. This young man did not recognise that the AMVCA is a formal event hence the dress code is “Black tie” and so, it is inappropriate to address the crowd as “you guys.”
Someone once said to me that our celebrities have a limited vocabulary that’s why we don’t get great speeches at the awards. I choose to believe the contrary. I believe that they lack decorum and grooming for public speaking. Most happen on their celebrity status and don’t take the pains to improve. They hire managers and stylists but do not hire publicists, and they don’t learn etiquette.
A week ago, Anthony “AJ” Joshua delivered a speech at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. His speech trended because it was very well thought-out.
Everyone knows AJ to be a “cool” and unassuming guy. AJ is used to speaking off-the-cuff but he acknowledged the seriousness of the occasion and recognised that there’s a place for a well thought-out speech and for being “cool.” So, he dressed for the occasion and read a written speech.
Nigerian celebrities need to understand this too. There are acceptable behaviours for formal settings. Our celebrities cannot only be fashion role models. They have to inspire in totality — words and character.
