Nollywood actress Juliana Olayode has spoken out in defence of women who genuinely desire marriage, insisting that wanting to become a wife should not be mistaken for desperation, lack of purpose or loss of identity.
Olayode, in an Instagram post, said women should be free to make their own choices about marriage, whether they choose to remain single or actively desire a husband.
She stressed that while women who are content with singlehood should be respected, those who hope to get married should not be ridiculed or made to feel inadequate for expressing that desire.
According to the actress, a woman’s excitement about marriage does not mean she is desperate or has abandoned her ambitions. She noted that wanting a husband does not suggest that a woman has nothing else happening in her life or that marriage is her only aspiration.
Olayode acknowledged that marriage can be challenging and that some unions end in painful circumstances. However, she pointed out that people have different experiences and perspectives, with some genuinely believing that marriage is beautiful and wanting to experience it for themselves.
The actress also recounted an encounter at a salon where she offered her unsolicited opinion after hearing some women criticise another woman for expressing her desire to get married.
She said the incident later became amusing to her when she came across a “BRIDE” swimsuit that a friend had gifted her in 2024, describing the timing as ironic.
Olayode maintained that choosing not to marry is a valid personal decision, just as desiring marriage is. She urged people to allow those who want marriage to pursue it without unnecessary criticism or pressure.
She further noted that women can desire several things simultaneously, including faith, purpose, career, financial success, meaningful friendships, family, social impact and a fulfilling marriage.
Concluding her message, Olayode wished women and men who desire marriage the joy of finding suitable partners and building unions that are worthy of their hopes.
“Up Love! Up Marriage!” she wrote.
