Mrs Kehinde Okoroafor, a Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been married for 27 years. She is the Chief Executive Officer of NextLevel Hair Manufacturer and founder of MakeMee Elegant Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on women empowerment. Her life's work revolves around raising women, restoring dignity, and creating opportunities for people to thrive. Okoroafor's commitment to giving back to society is evident in her various charitable initiatives, from feeding programmes to empowering women through skills and independence.
Okoroafor met her husband at Société Générale Bank Nigeria, where they were colleagues. Despite being from different tribes, their relationship blossomed, and they got married. Her husband's mother initially had reservations about their union, citing cultural differences, but his father accepted her. Okoroafor and her husband have been together for nearly three decades, and their relationship has been built on a foundation of love, trust, and mutual respect.
The couple has three girls and twins, one of whom studied law and the other medicine. Okoroafor considers having children together as one of the best moments they've shared. She attributes the success of their marriage to putting God first, being friends, laughing together, and communicating effectively. Okoroafor advises younger couples to prioritize these aspects and to forgive quickly, as pride can destroy marriages.
Okoroafor's advice to young couples is centered around building a strong foundation for their relationship. She emphasizes the importance of friendship, prayer, and growth in a marriage. Okoroafor also stresses that marriage is not a 50/50 partnership, but rather a commitment to show up for each other, even on difficult days. Her approach to marriage is rooted in her faith and her desire to see couples thrive.
The increasing number of marriage breakups in Nigeria is a concern for Okoroafor. She believes that many breakups occur because couples rush into marriage for the wrong reasons, such as social media pressure or financial gain, without building a solid foundation. Okoroafor recommends that couples seek godly counselling before marriage, understand each other's values, and prioritize patience and forgiveness.
Okoroafor's recommendations for a successful marriage include teaching young people that marriage is work and that it's not just about the wedding day. She encourages couples to bring God back into the home, establish a family altar, and seek guidance from godly mentors. Okoroafor also advises couples not to give up too quickly and to seek help when needed.
Okoroafor's story is a testament to the power of commitment and hard work in marriage. Her 27-year marriage is an inspiration to many, and her advice offers a refreshing perspective on building a lasting relationship. As a prominent figure in Nigerian society, Okoroafor's voice on marriage and relationships is one that deserves to be heard.
Key points
- Mrs Kehinde Okoroafor has been married for 27 years and attributes her successful marriage to putting God first and prioritizing friendship and communication.
