Veteran Nollywood actor Chiwetalu Agu has advised women to build a solid foundation of independence before marriage, stressing that financial, mental, and spiritual stability are essential for a fulfilling life.
In a recent Instagram video, Agu cautioned women against believing that marriage defines their worth or completes them, saying that self-development should precede any commitment.
“Be a complete woman before you marry,” Agu said. “It’s not marriage that makes you whole. Establish yourself mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially before taking that step.”
The actor emphasized that marriage should complement a woman’s journey rather than become her source of identity or fulfillment. He noted that women who rely entirely on their husbands for emotional or financial support often find themselves vulnerable in times of crisis.
“Even if you’re not yet financially stable, make sure you have something doing, a business idea, a skill, or a source of income,” he added. “Don’t depend completely on anyone for your survival.”
Agu also drew attention to the challenges faced by widows, divorced women, and single mothers, pointing out that some in-laws strip widows of their late husbands’ property, leaving them destitute.
He warned that such outcomes often result from a lack of personal independence and encouraged women to secure their own means of livelihood and identity.
“Society is not always kind to widows or divorced women. Build yourself now so that you’re not left helpless if life takes an unexpected turn,” he said.
The actor concluded by urging women to prioritize self-worth, ambition, and purpose, rather than viewing marriage as the ultimate goal.
“Marriage should be an addition, not a necessity,” Agu said. “When you develop your brand, strength, and dreams as a woman, you enter marriage from a place of wholeness, not dependence.”
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