Nigerian actress Bisola Aiyeola has said marriage is not a defining ambition in her life, stressing that although she would welcome it if the opportunity arose, she is content with her present circumstances and feels no pressure to get married.
The actress made the remarks during an appearance on the In My Opinion podcast, where she reflected on marriage, the unequal responsibilities often shouldered by women in relationships, and her experience raising her daughter as a single parent.
Bisola expressed concern over situations in which women are expected to provide for their families, raise children and manage household affairs with little or no support from their partners. She questioned the value of such marriages, particularly when women are left to shoulder responsibilities that should be shared by both partners.
“Women are like, you know what? What’s the point if I still must do everything myself? Why do I have to be tied to this man all in the name of marriage?” she asked.
According to the actress, such imbalances can make women reconsider the purpose of marriage when they are already carrying the weight of family life without adequate support from their partners.
While acknowledging marriage as an important social institution, Bisola maintained that it would not take precedence over her personal fulfilment or determine her sense of accomplishment.
“Marriage is an institution; it is essential for society. For me, if I do get married, it won’t be the core of my life. I mean, I’m doing well,” she said.
The actress, who is raising her daughter as a single parent, also spoke candidly about the demands of single parenthood, emphasising that the responsibility of raising a child should not rest on one person alone.
Although she continues to navigate the challenges of parenting independently, Bisola said she makes a point of letting her daughter understand that single parenthood can be difficult and should not be viewed as an ideal to aspire to.
“Being a single parent and looking after my daughter, I still let her know that being a single parent is not that easy. That’s not what you should aspire to be. Bearing the whole load of raising a child shouldn’t be for one person alone,” she said.
Her comments underscored the importance of shared responsibility in parenting and the need for partners to contribute meaningfully to family life rather than leave one person to manage the demands alone.
Reflecting on turning 40 in January, the actress expressed satisfaction with her personal growth and described her current stage of life as particularly fulfilling.
“I turned 40 in January. Yeah. I love me so much, and this is the best time of my life,” she said.
Bisola’s remarks highlight her position that marriage, while valuable, is not the sole measure of a woman's success or happiness. For the actress, personal contentment and a fulfilling life remain important, regardless of her marital status.