Nollywood actress Ruth Kadiri has advised couples to avoid putting themselves under unnecessary pressure to organise elaborate weddings, arguing that the expectations surrounding such ceremonies can affect marriages.
Kadiri said big weddings often place emotional and mental pressure on couples, adding that some people fail to recognise how the demands of wedding preparations can influence their transition into married life.
In a video circulating online and shared by Pulse on Sunday, the actress questioned why some couples who have dated happily for years begin to experience fear and uncertainty after their wedding ceremonies.
She said the pressure associated with weddings could contribute to changes in people’s attitudes towards marriage, urging young couples to focus on their relationship rather than the expectations of society.
“I do think that big weddings put pressure on couples. It puts pressure on the marriage itself,” she said.
Kadiri encouraged couples to consider simpler wedding arrangements, suggesting that they could complete the necessary traditional and legal processes, invite a small number of guests and celebrate privately with family and close friends.
According to her, couples should not feel compelled to organise multiple ceremonies, including engagement parties, court weddings, white weddings and traditional weddings, simply because society expects them to do so.
The actress also warned that elaborate celebrations could expose couples to unnecessary scrutiny and pressure from other people.
She urged young Nigerians to reconsider the belief that the size or grandeur of a wedding determines the success of a marriage.
Beyond marriage, Kadiri called for a broader change in societal expectations, particularly the pressure parents and extended family members place on young people to succeed financially.
She also highlighted the burden often placed on firstborn children, who may be expected to shoulder family responsibilities and provide financial support for relatives.
The actress argued that success means different things to different people and should not be measured solely by wealth, career achievements or the ability to meet other people’s expectations.
“Success means different things to different people,” she said, adding that a fulfilling life could simply mean being at home with one’s children and expressing love for them.
Kadiri urged parents, families and society to give young people more room to make personal decisions without being subjected to constant pressure.
She said the expectations placed on people in 2026 could make it difficult for them to enjoy life, encouraging Nigerians to prioritise their peace of mind and personal happiness over societal approval.