- Women’s perspectives on relationship choices are evolving and diverse
- TheRadar spoke with 10 Nigerian ladies about how age influences their decision to enter a relationship
- While some believe age is just a number, others prefer older partners and shared their reasons
As society evolves, so do women’s perspectives on relationships. While some believe that "age is just a number" as long as their partner is financially stable and emotionally mature, others hold firm to the belief that their significant other should be older.
Recently, a Nigerian woman sparked debate after sharing the benefits of marrying an older man—showcasing luxury gifts, financial security, and international travel.
Her stance ignited mixed reactions online, with some agreeing that older men offer more stability, while others challenged her view. In her response to Legit, she said, “Age does not matter in marriage when the man is older, but it matters a lot when the woman is older. Once the older man is providing all your needs, his age doesn’t matter."
To explore this further, TheRadar spoke with 10 Nigerian women about their relationship preferences regarding age. While most preferred older partners, a few had differing opinions.
Here’s what they had to say:
Nigerian women share their views on age preference
Emma:
“I think all the options are still the best depending on the one that comes their way. What matters most is the love, and for ladies to marry someone younger than them, is a good one too, despite the stereotype about that, but the age difference should not be much. It might be a year, two or three max. The lady should be two or three years older than the man. So that it won't be glaring to the public and it will just be a secret between the two to avoid critics.”
Demilade:
“As much as I don't equate age to maturity, I know several younger guys who are mature and good. But then, I'd rather go for someone older than me, mature and has gone ahead with things in life.”
Elizabeth:
“I prefer my age range or older than me. It should not be younger.”
Tomiwa:
“Older.. I feel older people have more steady and trustworthy personalities. They might also be calmer when facing issues.”
Peace:
“Definitely an older person. I just prefer to have someone who is older cos I think they tend to be more mature, have more stability, and it just comes with a sense of security. I prefer to have someone who has experienced life ahead of me and guide me through.”
Mary:
“I think I just prefer someone older. Like two years older. Older men are more mature.”
Mojisola:
“As much as I can give exceptions to being in a relationship with someone younger if the man is exceptional and has sense, I would still prefer being in a relationship with someone older. I tend to respect them more, and I believe they have gone ahead to help us make important decisions together.”
Anne:
“I prefer an older man as he is more likely to understand the value of commitment and family.”
Blessing:
"Age doesn’t matter to me as long as there’s love, respect, and mutual understanding.”
Tobi:
"I prefer someone around my age because we will understand each other better and share similar experiences.”
Changing surname after marriage or not: 16 single ladies talk about what they’ll do
Meanwhile, TheRadar previously reported responses gotten from 16 single Nigerian ladies on their opinion concerning changing surnames after marriage.
Mixed responses were gotten, as some were adamant to retain their father’s name, some conservative ones opined to change to their husband’s name, while the others said they will retain their father's name while adding their husband's name to it, because of the professional exposure their maiden name has gained.
