Media personality Toke Makinwa has stirred fresh conversations on marriage and personal growth after advising women against getting married in their 20s, arguing that many are still discovering themselves during that stage of life.
Makinwa made the remarks during a recent episode of her podcast, *Toke Moments*, which featured reality television star Anita “Tacha” Natacha Akide as a guest.
According to the actress and media entrepreneur, women in their 20s are often still evolving emotionally, professionally and personally, making it an unsuitable period to commit to lifelong marital responsibilities.
She maintained that many women who married at a young age later realized they had rushed into the decision before fully understanding themselves and what they wanted from life.
“Women have no business getting married in their 20s. You don’t even know yourself yet,” Makinwa said during the discussion.
She further claimed that a significant number of women who got married early now regret the decision, adding that even some who remain in their marriages would admit they should have waited longer if they were completely honest.
“Those who did are regretting it now. Even those who are still married, if they are being honest, they will tell you that they shouldn’t have rushed it,” she added.
The comments immediately sparked debate on social media, with many users expressing differing opinions about the appropriate age for marriage and whether personal readiness should take precedence over societal expectations.
While some agreed that personal growth and financial independence are important before marriage, others argued that readiness for marriage depends on individual maturity rather than age alone.
During the podcast, Tacha also shared her perspective, recalling advice from her mother about the realities of married life.
“My mum says marriage is like an institution. Those inside want to get out, those outside can’t wait to get in,” the reality star remarked, prompting laughter during the conversation.
The discussion touched on the pressures many young women face from family members and society to marry before reaching a certain age, despite changing priorities surrounding education, careers and self-development.
Relationship experts have long argued that successful marriages depend more on emotional maturity, compatibility and shared values than on age alone.
Makinwa, who has frequently spoken publicly about relationships and personal development, has used her podcast to discuss issues affecting modern women, including love, career ambitions, self-worth and societal expectations.
Her latest remarks have added to ongoing conversations about evolving attitudes toward marriage, particularly among younger Nigerians balancing personal aspirations with traditional cultural expectations.

