Veteran Nollywood actress Binta Ayo Mogaji has advised women over the age of 35 to consider having children outside wedlock if they desire to experience motherhood.
In a recent interview with Oyinmomo TV, the 60-year-old actress shared her perspective on societal expectations, marriage, and the challenges women face as they age.
Mogaji, who welcomed her first child at the age of 40, emphasized that women should prioritize their desire for motherhood rather than adhering to societal norms.
She encouraged unmarried women in their mid-thirties or older to have children with a willing partner, even if the partner is not ready for marriage.
“What I’m saying is, once you’re 35 or older and you don’t have a husband, but there’s someone in your life who is with you but not ready for marriage, and he wants a child, have a child with him, even if he won’t accept responsibility for the child,” Mogaji said during the interview.
The actress pointed out that women over 35 often face difficulties when seeking marriage, as society tends to favor younger women for marriage. Mogaji suggested that in such cases, women should consider motherhood outside wedlock or adoption if they cannot find a suitable partner.
“When your mates are grandmothers, and you’re still saying you’re looking for a husband, when will you find a husband and become a grandmother?” she questioned.
Mogaji concluded by advising women to take control of their reproductive choices.
“If you find someone you like, ask him to impregnate you as long as you want a child and can take care of the child. But if you want a child and cannot find a man to impregnate you, then consider adoption,” she added.
