In a world where being in a relationship is often seen as a measure of success, Nigerian media personality and entrepreneur, Toke Makinwa, is urging society to rethink its perception of single people. In a candid post on the social media platform X, Makinwa addressed the common stereotype that all singles are lonely, unhappy, or incomplete without a partner. Her message resonated with many, encouraging a fresh approach to the widely-held beliefs about singlehood.
Makinwa’s remarks come on the heels of a misunderstanding that occurred at a recent Thanksgiving party she hosted. The event, which many believed to be an engagement celebration, sparked rumors about her personal life. However, Makinwa quickly cleared up the confusion, stating that she was not engaged but simply celebrating life with friends.
Using the moment as a springboard, Makinwa took to X, where she expressed her thoughts on the stigma attached to being single. “It’s surprising how some people believe every single person is lonely. You’d be shocked by how content and happy many single people are,” she wrote. “Don’t get me wrong, being in a relationship is great, but if you don’t find your own purpose, you can be with someone and still feel lonely.”
Makinwa’s words reflect a growing conversation in Nigeria and globally, challenging the conventional narrative that people without romantic partners are somehow incomplete. Her message is clear: happiness and fulfillment should not be defined by one’s relationship status.
Personal Fulfillment Over Societal Expectations
In the same post, Makinwa shared her belief that personal fulfillment is a vital part of self-worth. She emphasized that, contrary to popular belief, being single does not equate to loneliness. Instead, it can be an opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and pursuing individual passions.
“It’s important to note that there’s more to life than romantic relationships,” Makinwa said in a recent interview with Eyes of Lagos. “A lot of people are pressured into relationships because they feel like they need to fit a mold. But when you focus on your own journey and well-being, you realize that there is a lot of joy in your own company.”
She also addressed the emotional toll that society’s obsession with relationship statuses can have on individuals. “Many people are stuck in toxic relationships and are secretly longing for their freedom. They wish they were single,” she remarked, suggesting that being alone could sometimes be a far more desirable state than being in an unhealthy relationship.
Makinwa’s stance is part of a broader cultural shift in Nigeria, where young people, especially women, are increasingly rejecting traditional narratives about marriage and romantic relationships. The pressure to settle down by a certain age is strong in Nigerian society, but many are now advocating for a more balanced, self-aware approach to love and life.
A New Perspective for the New Year
As the year comes to a close, Makinwa is encouraging Nigerians to approach 2024 with a new mindset, leaving behind the outdated and harmful myths about singlehood. “Let’s leave the misconception that single people are miserable, lonely, or sad behind in 2024. Many people are in bad situations and secretly wish they were alone, so let people be,” she concluded.
This message of self-empowerment and freedom is resonating with many, especially in urban centers like Lagos, where the hustle and bustle of city life often creates a pressure cooker of social expectations. Singles in particular have often faced public scrutiny, with assumptions made about their emotional states simply based on their relationship status.
Makinwa’s call for a shift in perspective comes as a much-needed reminder that happiness is not contingent on having a partner, and being single should be embraced as an opportunity for growth and self-care.
Challenging Social Norms in a Changing Society
The conversation sparked by Makinwa’s post is not just about singlehood, but also about a broader societal transformation. Nigerian youth are increasingly embracing progressive ideals, with many rejecting traditional norms that place undue emphasis on marriage as the ultimate goal. This change is reflected in various aspects of Nigerian life, from the entertainment industry to the workplace, where more individuals are prioritizing their careers and personal goals over conventional timelines for relationships.
In fact, several public figures, including Makinwa, have been vocal about the pressure that society places on women, in particular, to settle down at a certain age. This pressure is often exacerbated by family members, peers, and even strangers, who may feel entitled to comment on a person’s marital status. Makinwa, who has long been a proponent of independence and self-love, is challenging these rigid expectations, encouraging Nigerians to embrace a more holistic view of happiness.
“You can be single, successful, and content,” Makinwa concluded in a recent Instagram live session. “Life is about being the best version of yourself, and that has nothing to do with having a partner.”
The Role of Social Media in Changing Perceptions
Social media has played a significant role in reshaping societal norms, particularly among young Nigerians. Platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok have become powerful tools for individuals to express their opinions and challenge traditional beliefs. Makinwa’s candidness in sharing her personal experiences and thoughts on these platforms has sparked widespread conversations, especially among young women, about redefining what it means to be happy and fulfilled.
With her vast following, Makinwa has used her influence not only to promote her business ventures but also to foster conversations about mental health, self-worth, and empowerment. Her message resonates with many who have long felt that their value was tied to their relationship status.
Her stance also encourages Nigerians to think critically about the narratives they consume daily, urging them to make decisions based on personal fulfillment rather than societal pressure.
