Toke Makinwa, a Nigerian actress and media personality, has generated controversy after expressing her belief that women should not rush into marriage in their 20s, claiming that this stage is more appropriate for personal development and self-discovery.

Makinwa stated that many women are still discovering who they are in their 20s and should refrain from making important life decisions, like getting married, too soon on a recent episode of her podcast, Toke Moments.

The media personality claims that women’s 20s experiences and lessons help mould their identities and get them ready for long-term relationships later in life.

Many women who married young, she claimed, subsequently understood they had made a snap decision.

She claims that some people stay in their relationships but secretly acknowledge that, given another chance, they would have made a different decision.

“Women have no business getting married in their 20s… You don’t even know yourself yet. Those who did are regretting it now. Even those who are still married if they are being honest, they will tell you that they shouldn’t have rushed it,” she said.

On social media, her comments have elicited conflicting responses. While some users concurred that people should prioritise personal growth before getting married, others contended that circumstances, ideals, and personal maturity all play a role in determining the ideal age for marriage.