A Caution Against Rushed Choices
Speaking at a recent student event, the 47-year-old novelist emphasized that the choice of a partner can profoundly shape a woman's life. She urged her audience to prioritize kindness and supportiveness over societal pressures to marry quickly.
“It’s really important who you choose. It’s really important. Young women, choose wisely,” Adichie said.
“Sometimes as young women, you can tell that the person you’re with is not really a good person, but you’re desperate to get married. You’re desperate to have somebody who’s your partner. Don’t settle. Be very careful who you choose.”
She underscored that a partner’s character can make all the difference in one’s happiness and stability.
“The person you choose as your life partner will make a huge difference in your life,” she said. “If you choose somebody who’s kind, supportive, it will make all the difference. So I can tell you that I chose well—there are some good men left.”
Personal Experience and Advocacy
Adichie, renowned for novels such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, has been married to Nigerian doctor Ivara Esege since 2009. The couple has three children—a daughter and twin boys.
Her reflections on marriage align with broader themes in her writing, where she often explores the complexities of gender, culture, and personal choice.
Reclaiming Identity Through Her Name
The award-winning author also recently spoke about reclaiming her cultural heritage by fully embracing her Igbo name, “Chimamanda,” after feeling a period of detachment from it.
Her call for intentionality in choosing partners comes at a time of evolving conversations around marriage expectations, gender roles, and women’s autonomy in Nigeria and around the world.
Adichie’s remarks continue her longstanding role as a prominent voice encouraging women to define their own paths and resist pressures that undermine their well-being or freedom.