Veteran Nigerian actress Binta Ayo Mogaji has recommended that women over 35 consider having children outside of marriage.
During an interview on Oyinmomo TV, the 60-year-old actress shared her views on marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations.
Having had her first child at 40, she encouraged single women over 35 to pursue motherhood, even if it means having children out of wedlock.
Magaji further stressed that women should focus on motherhood rather than conforming to societal norms.
She stated, “What I’m saying is that if you are 35 or older and don’t have a husband, but there’s someone in your life who isn’t ready for marriage but wants a child, then have a child with him, even if he won’t take responsibility for it.
“When a woman seeks a husband at 35, people often claim she is too old and won’t be able to meet her mother-in-law’s expectations or be controlled. Men are often advised to seek a younger woman who will be more compliant.”
She added that if a woman is lucky enough to marry, she may be older by the time her child reaches adulthood. While some women become grandmothers by 45 or 50, others are still searching for a husband; she questioned when they would find a partner and become grandmothers.
“My advice is that if God blesses you with someone who cares for you and you can have children together, go for it as long as you want a child and can provide for them. However, if you cannot find a man to father your child, consider adoption.”
