This thought-provoking essay challenges societal norms surrounding marriage and womanhood, arguing that traditional expectations of women being “marriage material” are outdated and limiting. The author contends that women are often expected to sacrifice their personal ambitions and autonomy for the sake of marriage, while men benefit from traditional structures without being held to the same standards. She advocates for a shift in narrative, where women are valued and cherished for who they are, and marriage is seen as a mutual partnership built on respect, love, and mutual support. Through personal anecdotes and sharp analysis, Adedire calls for a redefinition of womanhood and marriage, free from societal pressures and expectations that prioritize men’s interests over women’s well-being.

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