Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and her husband
Veteran Nollywood actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, has opened up about the challenges of marriage, saying it’s not always perfect—even after nearly 30 years with her husband, Captain Matthew Ekeinde.
Speaking on Chude Jideonwo’s podcast, she shared how love, faith, and friendship have helped keep their relationship strong over the years.
“There are times I look at him and think, ‘Somebody please remind me why I married this man,’” she said with a smile. “And he probably feels the same way about me. Those days come.”
She explained that even when she doesn’t feel deeply in love, she still respects her husband because of her faith.
“I honour him not because I’m head over heels in love at that moment, but because I honour the One who gave me the mandate to be with him.”
Omotola encouraged couples not to pretend everything is perfect, but to accept that tough days are normal.
“Relax—it’s not that serious. Remember you’re a human being,” she said.
She also joked about noticing other attractive men but said she reminds herself to stay focused.
“There are times I see guys who look ‘fantabulous’ and I say, ‘Oh child!’ But you check yourself.”
Omotola believes friendship is what holds a marriage together when love fades a little.
She also said that women should be financially independent before getting married.
“Women without income should not consider marriage. If you marry when you’re not financially stable, it becomes slavery.”
Her final advice was to choose a partner who understands and supports you.
“Don’t marry your fan. Marry someone who truly understands you.”
Omotola and her husband have been married since 1996, showing that real love takes honesty, respect, and hard work.