Nollywood icon Kanayo O. Kanayo has shared his thoughts on the challenges some women face when they remain unmarried past a certain age. Speaking during an interview on News Central, the veteran actor reflected on how choices made in younger years can influence later stages of life, particularly when it comes to relationships and marriage.
According to Kanayo, many young women between the ages of 20 and 24 often prioritize relationships with wealthy, older men over building connections with younger suitors who may have long-term potential. This, he said, sometimes leads to missed opportunities.
Kanayo explained, “A young lady in university, say at 18 or 19, might start dating a rich older man. The allure of financial stability—maybe a car or even a house—can make her feel like she’s operating on a different level. Because of this, she might overlook younger men who are genuinely interested in her.”
He went on to describe how this pattern can affect women as they age. “By 25 or 26, she’s still unmarried, and time keeps moving. By 29 or 30, she might begin to notice that the attention she used to get isn’t the same anymore. At this point, it’s not just about having fun—it becomes a serious concern.”
Kanayo painted a vivid picture of the progression, saying, “At 23, life is all about fun and excitement. At 28, prayers for a husband begin. By 33, it becomes what I’d call a state of emergency. At that age, finding a husband might feel like an uphill battle. And by 35, many women in this situation might appear to be living carefree lives, but deep down, they’re not as happy as they seem. They’re praying fervently for someone to come along.”
The actor referenced his work in a story titled After 33, which delves into similar themes.
Kanayo’s reflections highlight societal pressures and the complexities surrounding relationships and marriage, sparking important conversations about expectations, priorities, and the realities of life choices.
