Veteran Nollywood actress, Ayo Mogaji has encouraged women over 35 years to prioritize motherhood, even if it means having children outside of marriage.
In a recent interview with Oyinmomo TV, the 60-year-old actress shared her thoughts on societal pressures, marriage, and motherhood.
Ayo Mogaji, who had her first child at 40, advised unmarried women over 35 to consider having children with a partner, even if marriage isn’t part of the immediate plan.
She emphasized that women should pursue motherhood, regardless of whether the man is ready to take responsibility for the child.
She said, “For women who are 35 or older and do not have a husband, but are in a relationship with someone who is not ready for marriage but willing to have a child, they should not hesitate to have a child, even if the man won’t take responsibility.”
Reflecting on her personal journey, Mogaji spoke about the societal pressures she faced and the emotional abuse she endured in a previous 13-year relationship.
She later married UK-based physiotherapist Victor Oduleye in 2006 and stressed that personal happiness and fulfillment should take precedence over societal expectations.
Mogaji also highlighted the challenges older women face when seeking marriage, noting that age can sometimes be a barrier.
The actress encouraged women to focus on starting families rather than waiting for marriage to fulfill their desire for children.
“At 35, many women are told they are too old to be a suitable wife, and often face the stigma of being unable to conform to traditional expectations.
“Even if they marry later, they may already be old by the time their children grow up, while their peers are becoming grandmothers,” she said.
The actress advised women to embrace motherhood when the opportunity arises, whether through pregnancy or adoption, rather than letting societal norms dictate their decisions.
Mogaji added, “If you meet someone you like and both of you are ready to have a child, go ahead and do it.”
“If no such opportunity arises, adoption is always an option for women who desire to become mothers.”
Meanwhile, Nollywood Actor, Samuel Jemitalo has advised men against marrying women who have made it in life because they will never respect them.
