Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia has sparked conversations on social media after stating that marriage and having children should not be regarded as measures of a woman’s success.
In a viral video circulating online, the actress encouraged women to pursue their personal goals at their own pace while refusing to allow societal expectations to define their worth.
Success goes beyond marriage and motherhood
Speaking in the video, Etinosa argued that marriage and parenthood are life choices rather than achievements.
“Marriage is not an achievement. Having children is not an achievement,” she said.
According to her, many women are unfairly judged based on their marital status instead of their personal growth, career accomplishments and contributions to society.
She stressed that every woman should be free to make important life decisions without pressure from family, friends or the public.
“She will do whatever she wants to do at her own time, at her own pace,” she added.
Hard work alone does not guarantee success
Reflecting on her acting career, Etinosa said success cannot be attributed solely to hard work.
She acknowledged that dedication is important but maintained that other factors, including divine favour, also play significant roles.
“There are some people who act far more than me, who work far harder than me, but I might be more recognised than them or I might be more successful than them.”
Quoting the Bible, she added:
“Paul plants, Apollos waters, and God brings the increase. It’s not just hard work. Hard work alone is not enough.”
Actress advises women to value themselves
Etinosa also shared lessons she would pass on to her daughter if given the opportunity.
She said self-esteem and self-respect would be her top priorities, arguing that women who value themselves are less likely to tolerate disrespect.
“If I don’t teach my daughter anything, I would teach her how to respect herself, how to value herself.”
She also advised women to ignore negative stereotypes and accusations often directed at successful females.
According to the actress, women frequently face criticism that questions how they achieved success, making it necessary to remain focused rather than seeking public validation.
“Stay grounded. Stay focused. Study people who have made it ahead of you. Do not envy. Be inspired. Do not be jealous.”
Watch the video here…
“It’s very difficult to make it in Nollywood as a woman because”…. ETINOSA reveals pic.twitter.com/VWBubmbsAS
— Kaptain Jeff (@KaptainJeff) July 6, 2026
