Nigerian comedian and actor Bovi Ugboma has sparked conversations online after criticising how many parents discourage dating among young people but later expect them to easily settle into marriage.
Comedian Challenges Parental Views on Dating
During a recent talk on relationships and societal norms, the comedian noted that many Nigerian parents treat innocent dating as a crime while their children are growing up.
He pointed out that youths are often barred from sharing feelings, penning love letters, or enjoying casual outings with someone they like.
“Most parents, you no wan hear your pikin get boyfriend but when they reach a certain age, you’ll be asking them bring husband. Why have you not brought husband? Where dey wan see husband from?” — Bovi
“You didn’t go to cinema to see movie with the babe harmlessly. You didn’t stroll or take walks, or write letters because if they see love letter that time we were in secondary school it will be like the whole world was stopping,” he added.
Public Reaction Fuels Discussion on Marriage and Dating Norms
He further argued that the negative perception of dating in society could be linked to rising marital breakdowns and divorce rates across Nigeria.
“We criminalize the dating culture in Nigeria and now we’re wondering why marriages are breaking,” he stated.
In recent years, celebrities, relationship analysts, and social commentators have increasingly emphasized the need for emotional maturity and healthy dating experiences before marriage.
Similar discussions gained traction in 2024 when public figures condemned the pressure placed on young Nigerians regarding relationships.
Many online users echoed Bovi’s stance, while others contended that strict parenting shields children from harmful influences and early distractions.
“There are many broken marriages because parents didn’t teach their children how to go on dates. Parents should allow their children go on dates” — Bovi pic.twitter.com/1IOAGjNYIw — HEADY👑 (@its_heady_again) May 26, 2026
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