Nollywood actor and filmmaker Daniel Etim-Effiong has come under criticism on social media following remarks he made about his marriage and family during a recent podcast appearance.
The movie star made the comments while speaking on the Mansplanation Podcast, where he discussed relationships, marriage dynamics and personal views on love.
During the conversation, Etim-Effiong stated that he loves his wife, Toyosi Phillips, more than his children, explaining that she occupies the foremost position in his life. According to him, although his children hold a special place in his heart, his commitment to his wife takes priority.
“I love my wife more than my children. My wife comes first before my children. Although they have a really special place in my heart, their mum comes first,” he said.
The actor also admitted that, like many people in committed relationships, he sometimes finds himself attracted to others. However, he clarified that such attraction does not necessarily translate to love or lust, noting that human emotions can be complex.
He further explained that there are various expressions of love, stressing that “being in love” with someone differs from simply “loving” them.
While speaking about his relationship with his wife, Etim-Effiong described their marriage as a partnership that functions in some ways like a business or enterprise, with both partners working together to sustain their family and personal ambitions.
Following the circulation of the interview online, the comments quickly triggered mixed reactions among Nigerians on social media.
Some users criticised the actor for publicly discussing what they considered private aspects of his family life, while others questioned his description of love within marriage.
An Instagram user identified as @monstarrboii wrote, “Whatever you have with your wife should stay between you and your wife; you owe us zero explanation. Cheers mate.”
Another user, @bee_nwa, commented, “If a man no love you, e go show. You go dey chop embarrassment on a steady.”
Similarly, @thetechwomanexpert reacted by questioning his description of marriage as a partnership or enterprise, noting that the interviewer had to emphasise that it should be built on love.
However, some social media users supported the actor’s perspective and praised his honesty about the realities of marriage.
A user identified as @habiba_zocksock wrote, “He’s speaking truths. If you like, don’t learn the reality of marriage, stay there with your judgemental head and talking rubbish.”
Another commenter, @_cocopresh, added that commitment does not eliminate attraction but requires clear boundaries and respect for one’s partner.
Daniel Etim-Effiong and Toyosi Phillips got married in 2017 and have since built a family together while maintaining active careers in Nigeria’s media and entertainment industry.