Veteran Nollywood actress, Tina Mbah, has shared heartfelt advice with her fellow actors who find themselves caught between pursuing their careers and maintaining a marriage.
The actress, who is a mother of two, encouraged her colleagues to remain vigilant and recognize early signs in a partner who may not support their professional aspirations. Reflecting on her own experiences, she emphasized the importance of not allowing marriage to become a barrier to one’s career growth.
During a recent episode of Lights, Camera – It’s My Turn, Mbah said, “He met you an actor, he married you an actor, there was no issue of you are going to leave this job because I am insecure or because we need to raise our children. No discussion or whatever. Then you got married thinking that now you are going to fly, and then the man comes and tells you, ‘No, you’re going to sit.’”
She urged women to pay attention to red flags and to have clear discussions with their partners about their careers before marriage. Mbah even suggested formal agreements if necessary to ensure their professional lives are respected.
“See, the signs are always there. Don’t ignore it. Watch him, watch her. You need to have a discussion with the person. If need be, you need to sign an undertaking that you would not make me leave my career. Because did he leave his job?”
She also highlighted that while marriage is valuable, it should be a personal choice made without pressure. Mbah reassured her peers that it’s possible to find a supportive partner, and urged them to stay authentic rather than chasing flashy illusions.
“Marriage is important but nobody put a gun to my head or to your head to do it. There are so many people in this world. If this didn’t work, another may work. You will meet a soulmate, someone who will be supportive. Just be true to yourself. Don’t go for the dazzles, be an antique babe like me.”