Tina Mbah Urges Nollywood Actresses to Prioritize Careers Over Unsupportive Marriages

Veteran Nollywood actress Tina Mbah has shared candid advice with her colleagues who find themselves struggling to balance their acting careers with the demands of marriage.

Speaking on a recent episode of Lights, Camera – It’s My Turn, Mbah stressed the importance of being vigilant about potential partners who may not support their ambitions. Drawing from personal experience, the mother of two encouraged female actors not to sacrifice their professional dreams for relationships that undermine their passion.

“He met you an actor, he married you an actor,” Mbah said. “There was no issue of you leaving this job because he’s insecure or because of raising children. Then you get married thinking you’re about to soar, and suddenly he says, ‘No, you’re going to sit.’”

Mbah urged women to pay attention to red flags early in relationships, emphasizing that the signs of a controlling or unsupportive partner are often visible. She also suggested having honest conversations — and even signing agreements, if necessary — to protect their careers.

“Marriage is important, but nobody put a gun to your head to do it,” she added. “If this one doesn’t work, another might. You will meet a soulmate who will be supportive. Just be true to yourself. Don’t go for the dazzles — be an antique babe like me.”

Her remarks come amid ongoing conversations around gender roles and professional sacrifices within the Nigerian entertainment industry.