In Nigerian culture and religious teachings, men traditionally assume leadership and provider roles within the family, while women support them as helpmates—a deeply ingrained societal norm.
However, modern Nigerian women are challenging this tradition, increasingly expecting men to bear all the financial burdens, most times viewing their sexuality as sufficient contribution to the relationship.
These raised expectations often lead to a lack of recognition for men’s efforts.
Recently, I encountered a situation where a woman ended a relationship because the man suggested splitting the bill on a date—a mindset reflecting broader societal attitudes in Nigeria.
Interestingly, some women expect men to cover expenses like clothing, makeup, and transportation for dates, prompting a closer examination of societal norms and gender expectations.
I’ve observed cases where men spent years lavishing their partners with extravagant gifts and experiences, only to receive minimal reciprocity or sometimes nothing, revealing a troubling sense of entitlement among some women.
This trend highlights the need to reconsider relationship dynamics and expectations.
While it’s important to avoid generalizations, the prevalence of such attitudes among Nigerian women is undeniable.
There’s a misconception that a man’s success and presentation primarily serve to attract women and prove his worth, when dating is actually about mutual understanding and connection.
Many women seem to overlook the collaborative nature of relationships, believing that once committed, men bear sole responsibility for their financial well-being. This raises significant questions about contemporary gender dynamics and relationship expectations.
