A Nigerian man has recounted his experience with a former university course mate who advised him to reduce how much he helps others after he supported him through a difficult period of unemployment.

Narrating the experience on X (formerly Twitter), the man, identified as Naeto in the account, explained that his course mate had remained unemployed since they graduated from university and had been living in his house since February.

Man helps unemployed friend get back on his feet

According to Naeto, his friend eventually secured a job in June after receiving assistance from him, including job suggestions and accommodation.

Following the development, the friend reportedly moved out and rented his own apartment, where he began setting up his home with household appliances.

Naeto said he was happy to see his former course mate making progress after the difficult period he had experienced.

Friend reportedly advises him to stop helping people

However, during his first visit to the friend’s new home, Naeto said he was taken aback by a comment that left him questioning the value his friend placed on his support.

According to him, the friend admitted that he might not have offered the same assistance if their positions had been reversed.

He reportedly told him:

“Naeto, if I must be honest, if a fellow course mate were in my position then, I doubt if I would have the heart to help them. You really need to reduce how you help people if you want to go far in life.”

Man reflects on friendship and gratitude

Naeto said the comment left him confused, as he struggled to determine whether his friend was offering genuine advice or expressing a lack of appreciation for the help he had received.

Despite helping his course mate through unemployment and providing him with accommodation, he concluded that he might not be able to rely on the friend if he ever found himself in a similarly vulnerable situation.

The story has sparked conversations about friendship, gratitude, generosity and the importance of understanding that not everyone would offer the same support they receive from others.

It has also raised questions about whether helping others should come with expectations of reciprocity or whether people should continue to be generous while maintaining reasonable boundaries.