Veteran Nollywood actress Ayo Mogaji has boldly advised women over 35 to prioritize motherhood, even if that means having children outside of marriage. In a candid interview with Oyinmomo TV, the well-respected actress opened up about societal pressures women face regarding marriage and motherhood, and shared her own personal experiences.
Mogaji stressed that once a woman reaches a certain age, particularly 35 and above, she should not feel pressured by the societal expectations of marriage if her desire is to become a mother. She stated, "If a woman is in a relationship with a man who isn’t ready for marriage but is willing to have a child, she shouldn’t hesitate to embrace motherhood." According to her, it’s more important to fulfill the dream of motherhood than to wait for a man who may not be ready to settle down.
Sharing insights from her own life, Mogaji revealed that she had her first child at the age of 40. She pointed out the challenges that older women face in their pursuit of marriage, especially when age becomes a barrier. “At 35, many women are told they are too old to be a suitable wife, and often face the stigma of being unable to meet traditional expectations,” she said. She added that even if women marry later, they might find themselves raising children in their older years, while their peers are becoming grandmothers.
Reflecting on her own life journey, Mogaji described enduring 13 years of emotional abuse in a previous relationship before marrying UK-based physiotherapist Victor Oduleye in 2006. She emphasized that women should prioritize their happiness and focus on what brings personal fulfillment, whether it’s through pregnancy or adoption.
Mogaji encouraged women not to wait for societal norms to dictate their decisions, adding: “If you meet someone you like and you’re both ready to have a child, go ahead and do it. And if no such opportunity arises, adoption is always an option for those who wish to become mothers.”
Her powerful words aimed to free women from the constraints of societal judgment, urging them to seize control of their own desires and life goals.
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