Nollywood actress Juliana Olayode has spoken about societal expectations surrounding marriage, saying women should not be criticised simply because they want to become wives.
Olayode addressed the issue in a post shared with her Instagram followers, where she defended women who openly express their desire for marriage.
She explained that women have different priorities and should be allowed to make personal decisions about relationships without being judged.
The actress said women who prefer single life deserve respect, but those who desire marriage should also be able to express that wish without being called desperate.
She argued that wanting a husband does not make a woman less ambitious or erase her achievements.
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“Wanting to get married is not a personality disorder,” she wrote.
Olayode acknowledged that marriage can be challenging and that some marriages end in painful circumstances. However, she said this does not prevent many people from viewing marriage positively and hoping to experience a fulfilling union.
She recounted a salon experience where she overheard women criticising another woman for wanting to get married.
According to Olayode, she offered her perspective during the discussion and later found humour in the incident after seeing a “BRIDE” swimsuit gifted to her by a friend in 2024.
The actress said women can pursue several goals at the same time, including faith, purpose, career, financial stability, friendship, family and marriage.
She urged people to extend the same freedom they demand for themselves to others.
Olayode concluded by wishing women who desire marriage good partners and fulfilling relationships, celebrating love and marriage with the words, “Up Love! Up Marriage!”