Portable Wins Praise for Respectful Gesture During Airport Meeting With Saidi Balogun

Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has earned widespread praise on social media after a heartwarming encounter with veteran Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun at an airport in Abuja.

Portable, who was travelling with his wife and newborn son for an event in the Federal Capital Territory, met the respected actor and greeted him with deep respect by prostrating—a traditional Yoruba gesture reserved for elders.

Saidi Balogun warmly acknowledged the singer before Portable introduced his family.

"This is my son, Fijabi," Portable said as he presented his newborn to the veteran actor.

His wife also showed respect by kneeling to greet Balogun, a gesture that further impressed many Nigerians after the video surfaced online.

The clip has since gone viral on X and other social media platforms, with many users commending the couple for demonstrating humility and respect despite Portable's often controversial public image.

Over the years, Portable has built a reputation for making headlines through his outspoken personality and frequent controversies. However, he has also been known to publicly honour senior figures whenever he meets them.

The singer has previously shown similar respect to legendary entertainer 2Baba, actress Funke Akindele, rapper Phyno, singer Tiwa Savage, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Fuji icon Kollington Ayinla and former NURTW chairman MC Oluomo, among other notable personalities.

His latest interaction with Saidi Balogun has once again highlighted a different side of the singer, with many fans applauding his willingness to honour elders regardless of his celebrity status.

Opinion:

Portable's public image is often dominated by controversy, but moments like this remind people that individuals can possess admirable qualities alongside their flaws. His respectful greeting to Saidi Balogun reflects a cultural value that continues to resonate with many Nigerians. While respectful gestures do not erase past controversies, they demonstrate the importance of humility and honouring elders—qualities that are widely appreciated across generations. The overwhelmingly positive reaction to the video shows that simple acts of respect can leave a lasting impression.