Veteran Nollywood actress Tina Mbah has advised her fellow actors, especially women, who struggle to balance their careers with the demands of marriage.
In a recent interview, Mbah spoke openly about the challenges some entertainers face when their spouses do not support their careers.
She urged her colleagues to remain observant before committing to marriage. According to her, there are always early warning signs when a partner may not be willing to support one’s professional journey.
“He married you as an actor”
Speaking on the show Lights, Camera – It’s My Turn, the mother of two drew from her personal experience to emphasize the importance of self-awareness and choice.
“He met you an actor. He married you as an actor. There was no conversation about leaving your job because of insecurity or family pressure. So, why should that change after marriage?” she said.
Mbah expressed concern over situations where women in the entertainment industry give up their dreams because of their husbands. She noted that many go into marriage expecting to thrive in both family life and career. However, reality often tells a different story.
“Some women get married and think they’ll soar even higher. But then the man turns around and says, ‘No, you’re going to stay home.’ That’s not fair,” she added.
Don’t ignore the signs
Mbah stressed the importance of paying attention to a partner’s attitude before marriage. “The signs are always there,” she said. “Don’t ignore them. Watch him. Watch her. See how they react to your work and dreams.”
She advised her colleagues to have deep conversations with their partners early on. If needed, she suggested that couples should put their agreements in writing to avoid future misunderstandings.
“If it gets to that point, sign an undertaking. Something that makes it clear that your career is not on the table. Because ask yourself, did he leave his job for you?” she questioned.
Marriage shouldn’t mean sacrifice of dreams
Mbah made it clear that she values marriage. But she also believes no one should sacrifice their life’s passion for it. “Marriage is important,” she said, “but nobody forced you or me into it. You have a choice.”
She encouraged women in Nollywood and beyond not to settle for less. “There are so many people in the world. If this one doesn’t work out, maybe another one will. You will meet someone who truly supports you.”
Be true to yourself
Mbah’s words carried a strong message of self-respect and authenticity. “Just be true to yourself,” she said. “Don’t go after the glitter or the spotlight. Be like me, an antique babe.”
She explained that while being in love is important, staying true to one’s values and dreams is even more vital. “There’s no shame in wanting both love and success. You can have both, but not with someone who wants to dim your light.”
A message for younger actors
Tina Mbah’s message is especially timely as more women in Nollywood are speaking up about the pressures of balancing family and career. Her advice is grounded in experience and speaks to the reality many actresses face in the industry.
Her appeal is simple but powerful: choose a partner who supports your dreams, not one who silences them.
As she continues to inspire through her performances, Mbah is also using her voice to uplift others behind the scenes. Her message is a call for women to protect their ambitions and never give up on themselves for the sake of acceptance.
