Nigerian media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo has opened up about how he nearly got married at the age of 25, but decided against it at the last moment, explaining that he was still in the process of discovering himself. In a recent interview with BBC News Pidgin, the popular youth advocate stated that rushing into such a lifelong commitment at that stage would have been a terrible mistake for his emotional well-being.
Why Chude Jideonwo Backed Out of Marriage
During the interview, Chude recounted how he was on the verge of walking down the aisle in his mid-twenties but chose to hit the brakes just before making the commitment. He explained that taking such a huge step would have severely clashed with his personal journey of self-discovery, and he later realized he was simply not prepared for the heavy demands of matrimony. Instead of rushing into a union he was ill-equipped for, Chude said he leaned heavily on his faith to navigate his feelings. He credited his relationship with God for guiding him away from the decision and helping him manage his internal struggles privately, which ultimately prevented him from transferring his emotional burdens onto the people closest to him.
Early Life and Success
Beyond his romantic near-miss, the entrepreneur also reflected on his fast-paced rise to prominence, noting that a strong childhood desire to become successful inspired his unusually early start. By the time he was fifteen years old, he had already authored three books, one of which launched his career in media and youth advocacy. That initial foundation eventually expanded into the highly influential platforms he runs today, which continue to drive important conversations across the African continent.
Netizens React to Chude Jideonwo's Revelation
Social media users shared mixed thoughts about his decision, with many praising the media personality for his honesty and maturity. One user, @wunmiade4, commented: "Even people wey get money dey face depression?" Another, @ola_badd, said: "Nigerians should leave people alone. Marriage and parenting isn't for everyone." @t.r.i.u.m.p.h.a.n.t wrote: "This guy is speaking sense." @chinenyembh added: "Abeg @chudeity no marry o." However, @EricStranberg wrote: "Una dey allow gay man bobo una, how a gay man wan marry before?"
Chude Jideonwo on Tourette Syndrome
In a previous report, Chude Jideonwo opened up about his secret battle with Tourette syndrome during an interview with BBC News Africa. He revealed that he first consciously noticed the involuntary symptoms in his late twenties, and his doctor advised him to hide the diagnosis because society might judge him harshly. The media personality said he relies on extreme mental pressure during public appearances to hold his body back, and he manages tics by acknowledging them aloud to reduce embarrassment.
