Why Nigerian Men “Always” Offer Women Money – Toke Makinwa Opens Up

According to Ireporter Online, Nollywood actress and media personality Toke Makinwa has dismissed the widespread claim that modern Nigerian women are overly materialistic or primarily interested in relationships for financial benefit.

Speaking on a recent episode of the MENtality podcast hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Makinwa argued that romantic relationships between men and women have historically involved some form of exchange, stressing that such dynamics did not begin with today’s generation.

She stated that relationships have always carried a transactional element “from time immemorial,” adding that even in ancient times and earlier generations, emotional and material exchanges were part of romantic unions. She, however, suggested that the current intensity of financial expectations in relationships should not be blamed solely on women.

According to her, many Nigerian men contribute to the perception of materialism by often presenting money as their primary form of attraction in courtship. She further claimed that some men rely heavily on financial displays due to a lack of other “romantic skills” or emotional depth in building relationships.

Makinwa also noted that repeated experiences of being approached with monetary gestures have influenced the expectations of some women over time, arguing that such behaviour is often taught and reinforced by men themselves.

She maintained that the issue is not one-sided, insisting that both genders have shaped the evolving dynamics of modern relationships through their actions and expectations.