Renowned Nigerian author and feminist icon, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has advised young women to be deliberate and discerning in choosing a life partner, cautioning against entering marriage out of desperation or societal pressure.
Speaking during a recent student engagement, the 47-year-old award-winning writer emphasized the lifelong impact of choosing a spouse, urging women to prioritize kindness, emotional support, and mutual respect in their relationships.
“It’s really important who you choose,” Adichie said. “Young women, choose wisely. Sometimes, you know deep down that the person you’re with isn’t right for you, but because of pressure — from family, society, or fear of being alone — you settle. Don’t do that.”
She continued: “The person you marry will significantly shape your life. If you choose someone who is kind and supportive, it makes all the difference. I can tell you from experience — I chose well. There are still good men out there.”
Adichie, celebrated for works such as Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah, has been married to Nigerian-American medical doctor Ivara Esege since 2009. The couple shares three children — a daughter and twin boys.
Her remarks come amid a broader conversation on identity and self-worth, as she recently revealed her decision to fully embrace her Igbo name, “Chimamanda,” after experiencing a sense of disconnection from it in the past.
Adichie’s message resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing her long-standing advocacy for women’s empowerment, individuality, and intentional living.