Veteran Nollywood actress, Chinyere Wilfred, has shared her thoughts on modern parenting and the rising instability in today’s marriages.
Speaking in a recent interview with The Nation, Wilfred expressed concern over how the values of younger generations, particularly those of Gen Z, are affecting family life.
The seasoned actress, who has spent over three decades in the film industry, pointed to a shift in cultural norms and the influence of social trends as key factors contributing to the challenges many families now face.
Gen Z influence and changing values
Wilfred believes that the rapid changes in culture, especially among Gen Z, have played a major role in reshaping the idea of family. According to her, many young couples today lack the patience and commitment that once held marriages together.
“Parents of this generation are Gen Z parents,” she said. “Back in our time, things were different. Parents didn’t do most of the things we’re seeing now. Look at what’s happening in marriages, people celebrate weddings with Aso Ebi and all the fanfare, and before you know it, they’re divorced. We didn’t experience things like that before.”
She added that she has been married for over 30 years and is still going strong. For her, this proves that commitment and old-fashioned values still matter.
Lessons from the screen
Wilfred revealed that her role in the television series Sands of Time forced her to take a hard look at her parenting style. In the show, she plays a character who is strict and overbearing, a role that made her reflect deeply on how she relates to her children.
“While shooting, I saw myself in that character,” she explained. “I realised I was overreacting with my children. During the shoot, I didn’t even notice it. But when I watched it again, I saw my faults clearly.”
This realisation hit home. After returning from the set, she decided to adjust her approach with her son. “When I got home, I became calm with my son,” she said.
Wilfred balancing protection and independence
Wilfred stressed the need for parents to find a healthy balance between protecting their children and giving them space to grow. She admitted that, in trying to shield her children from the world, she may have gone too far.
“Even now, though he’s a graduate, my son still can’t sleep out,” she confessed. “I thought I was protecting them, but I was actually overprotecting them.”
According to Wilfred, many parents unknowingly cross the line between love and control. While it is natural to want to keep children safe, she warned that too many restrictions can prevent them from developing confidence and independence.
A call for reflection
As a mother and a veteran in the entertainment industry, Wilfred urged fellow parents, especially those raising children in the digital age, to take a step back and evaluate their parenting style. She encouraged them to adapt while still holding onto the values that promote love, patience, and long-term commitment in families.
Her personal story and reflections serve as a gentle reminder that parenting is a journey of learning, unlearning, and constant growth.
“In the end,” she said, “we all want the best for our children. But sometimes, doing less is doing more.”
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