Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has spoken candidly about her marriage, revealing that there are moments she questions her decision to marry her husband, Captain Matthew Ekeinde. In an interview on the Chude Jideonwo Podcast, Omotola shared the realities of her decades-long marriage, stating that it's not always about romance. She made these comments on October 4, 2026, in an interview that has since gone viral on social media.
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Captain Matthew Ekeinde have been married since 1996 and are considered one of Nollywood's longest-standing couples. The actress revealed that she and her husband understand that they are individuals on separate life journeys who have made a conscious decision to stay together out of commitment and shared values. This approach has helped them navigate the ups and downs of marriage.
The mother of four shared that there are days she wakes up wondering why she chose her husband as a life partner, saying "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. I'm at loss of memory right now." She also admitted to sometimes admiring other men and reflecting on what could have been.
Despite these feelings, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde emphasized that her commitment to her marriage goes beyond fleeting emotions, explaining that it is sustained by faith and a sense of purpose. She stated, "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." This mindset has helped her navigate challenging times in her marriage.
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde turns to God for direction whenever she feels disconnected from her husband. She reported, "So the times when I see him and I'm not too much in love with him, I report him to God. And I'm like, hey, what's up now? Should I sustain this? Are you going to make it come around? Because right now he's not looking good." Her faith plays a significant role in her marriage.
The screen diva noted that mutual respect and space have been key to the longevity of their union. She said, "I'm with you because I choose to be with you. He's with me because he chooses to be with me. So we respect each other's choices, each other's space, and each other's wholesomeness." This approach has helped them maintain a healthy and fulfilling marriage.
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde cautioned couples against expecting perfection in marriage, stressing the need for honesty and open communication. She advised, "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. You are just who you are. You're a human being. That's who you are. But when you choose someone as a partner in life, be open with them. Discuss things with them. And if God helps you and you have a good value system, life will be easier." Her comments have sparked reactions from fans and followers.
Key points
- Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde's marriage is sustained by faith and a sense of purpose.
- The actress values mutual respect and space in her marriage.
- Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde cautions couples against expecting perfection in marriage.
