Marriage is not all about romance – Omotola

Nollywood actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has opened up about the realities of her marriage to Captain Matthew Ekeinde, saying lasting relationships require more than just romantic feelings.

Speaking on the Chude Jideonwo Podcast, the actress admitted that there are moments when she questions her choice of husband, but said her commitment to the marriage is rooted in faith, shared values, and a conscious decision to remain together.

“There are times when I wake up and I'm like, somebody needs to remind me why I chose this guy again. Because right now I can't remember,” she said.

Omotola, who has been married since 1996, said she does not expect love in marriage to remain constant.

“I'm not with him because I love him all the time. I'm with him because I choose love, because God has given me a mandate to be by his side, and vice versa,” she said.

The mother of four said she turns to God for guidance when she feels disconnected from her husband, rather than allowing temporary emotions to determine the future of their relationship.

She also identified mutual respect and personal space as key to sustaining their marriage, stressing that both partners must be allowed to maintain their individuality.

Omotola cautioned couples against expecting marriage to be “lovey-dovey” at all times, urging them to prioritise honesty, communication, and a strong value system.

“Don't think that when you're married to someone, it's always going to be lovey-dovey. That's not why I got married to him,” she said.

Omotola and Captain Ekeinde have four children and are among Nollywood's longest-standing celebrity couples.