Nollywood actress Ruth Kadiri has advised couples to avoid putting themselves under pressure to organise elaborate weddings, saying the expectations surrounding such celebrations can place unnecessary emotional and mental strain on marriages.
Kadiri made the remarks in a video circulating online and shared by Pulse, where she questioned why some couples who enjoy stable relationships for years begin to experience fear and uncertainty around the time they get married.
According to the actress, the demands associated with wedding preparations can affect couples as they transition into married life, particularly when they feel compelled to meet society’s expectations rather than make decisions based on their circumstances.
“I do think that big weddings put pressure on couples. It puts pressure on the marriage itself,” she said.
Kadiri encouraged intending couples to consider simpler celebrations, arguing that marriage should not become a source of stress because of the desire to organise a grand ceremony.
She suggested that couples could complete the necessary traditional and legal processes, invite a limited number of guests and celebrate with close family and friends without feeling obligated to hold multiple events.
The actress questioned the expectation that couples must organise engagement ceremonies, court weddings, white weddings and traditional weddings simply to satisfy relatives or conform to social standards.
She also warned that elaborate celebrations could expose couples to unnecessary scrutiny, adding to the pressure they already face while preparing for married life.
Kadiri’s comments come amid ongoing conversations about the financial and social expectations surrounding weddings in Nigeria, where some couples face pressure from family members and society to organise expensive ceremonies.
Beyond wedding expenses, the actress called for a broader change in how society measures success and places expectations on young people.
She highlighted the responsibilities often placed on firstborn children, who may be expected to support their parents, siblings and extended family financially, sometimes regardless of their personal circumstances.
Kadiri argued that such expectations can make it difficult for young people to make independent choices or pursue a version of success that aligns with their own priorities.
She maintained that success means different things to different people and should not be measured exclusively by wealth, professional achievements or the ability to meet other people’s demands.
“Success means different things to different people,” she said, explaining that a fulfilling life could simply mean being at home with one’s children and expressing love for them.
The actress urged parents and extended family members to give young people more room to make personal decisions without constant pressure to meet external expectations.
She also encouraged Nigerians to reconsider the standards they use to judge other people’s lives, noting that the pressure to satisfy society can make it difficult to enjoy personal happiness.
Kadiri said the expectations placed on people in 2026 could leave little room for peace of mind, urging individuals to prioritise their wellbeing and happiness rather than organising their lives around public approval.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
