Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has advised women with career ambitions to prioritize having children early, suggesting that starting a family should take precedence over getting married if one is aiming for long-term career success.
Bakare shared her perspective during an interview with “Nollywood On Radio”, where she spoke about her own experiences and the challenges career-oriented women face in balancing family life with professional growth.
The actress emphasized that while marriage is often seen as a prerequisite for starting a family, it is not necessarily the case.
She pointed out that focusing on having children without the pressure of marriage can be a more practical approach for those who want to build their careers without interruptions later in life.
“If you are aspiring to be a successful superstar as a young girl, I would advise you to start a family early so that you can have the rest of your years to focus on your career because the family aspect is very important,” she explained.
Bakare further clarified her statement by distinguishing between marriage and family. “I know getting married early may lead to divorce, but I mean starting a family early.
Maybe I should retract that because I do not necessarily mean marriage. I never thought of marriage when I had my first child; I just wanted a baby,” she stated. “So the advice is not to get married early but to start having a family.”
She drew from her own personal life to illustrate her point, noting that her decision to start a family early in her career allowed her to pursue her professional ambitions later without the added pressure of balancing motherhood.
Bakare explained that having children early gave her the opportunity to focus on her acting career and other ventures without compromising her family responsibilities.
Laide Bakare, now 43, has experienced different phases of family life. The actress was previously married to Olumide Okunfulire, with whom she had her daughter, Simi, in 2008. The marriage, however, did not last, and she eventually remarried.
In 2013, Bakare tied the knot with Lagos socialite Tunde Oriowo, and they had two sons together. Her family dynamics, she believes, have provided her with the insight to speak on the challenges and choices that career-driven women face.
Bakare also highlighted that, while society often places pressure on women to follow a traditional path of marriage before motherhood, this approach may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with demanding careers. “It’s important to understand that there are different ways to achieve your goals,” she said.
“If you wait too long to have children because you’re focused on your career, you might find it difficult later on. That’s why I believe having children early, even if marriage is not yet in the picture, can be a wise choice.”
The actress also mentioned that her perspective is not meant to undermine the institution of marriage but rather to present a practical solution for women who aspire to excel in their careers while also fulfilling their desire to have children.
She stressed that achieving balance is key and that women should feel empowered to make decisions that work best for their individual circumstances.
Reflecting on her journey, Bakare expressed satisfaction with her choices, noting that her approach has allowed her to establish herself in Nollywood while being present for her children.
She encouraged young women to prioritize their goals and find a path that aligns with their personal and professional aspirations. “Every woman’s journey is different.
What worked for me might not work for everyone, but it’s about finding what makes you happy and fulfilled,” she concluded.
Bakare’s remarks have sparked discussions among fans and within the Nollywood community about the evolving roles of women in society and how traditional expectations are shifting.
Her candid approach to family planning offers an alternative perspective for women seeking to balance the demands of a career with the desire to build a family, emphasizing that there is no single path to success.
