Popular Nollywood actress and media personality, Toke Makinwa, has ignited a fresh wave of conversation online after challenging the stereotype that modern Nigerian women are inherently materialistic. Speaking on a recent episode of the MENtality podcast, hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Makinwa argued that the dynamics of modern romance are heavily influenced by what men bring to the table.
The Transactional Nature of Romance
Addressing the age-old debate on dating and financial expectations, Makinwa pointed out that relationships have always had a transactional element, dating back to ancient times. Rather than blaming women for this reality, she places the responsibility squarely on men, suggesting they have set the standard themselves.
From time immemorial, a relationship between a man and a woman has always been transactional, right from the Garden of Eden, right from our parents’ days, Makinwa explained. She went on to suggest that the modern escalation of this trend is fueled by men who rely solely on their wallets to secure affection.
Do Nigerian Men Lack ‘Game’?
According to the media star, many Nigerian men struggle to connect with women on an emotional or intellectual level, leaving them with financial incentives as their only tool for courtship. She noted that this reliance on money undermines genuine connection.
Makinwa elaborated on this pattern during the podcast, highlighting several key behaviors:
- Many men believe that cash is the only valuable asset they need to present to a woman.
- Once some men achieve financial success, they immediately resort to throwing money at the women they desire.
- This behavior has inadvertently trained women to make financial demands, shaping the very materialism men complain about.
Shifting the Narrative on Dating Culture
Makinwa concluded by reflecting on her own dating experiences, sharing that even when women attempt to truly get to know a partner, they are often met with financial offers instead of genuine conversation. By highlighting these dynamics, she hopes to shift the narrative around modern relationships and encourage men to offer more than just financial benefits.