By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja
Marriage has long been regarded as one of society’s most respected institutions — a union that binds two individuals, unites families, and provides the foundation upon which communities are built.
For centuries, it has symbolised commitment, stability, and shared responsibility. Yet, in an era defined by social change, economic pressures, and shifting values, the meaning and expectations of marriage are being quietly, but steadily, redefined.
Today, an important question emerges: is marriage still the lifelong partnership it was once assumed to be, or is it evolving into something fundamentally different?
Traditionally, marriage served clear purposes. It provided structure for family life, regulated inheritance, and ensured social order.
It was viewed not only as a romantic bond but also as a duty — a commitment sustained by patience, compromise, and collective responsibility. Divorce was rare, roles were defined, and societal expectations were largely unquestioned.
However, modern realities present a more complex picture.
As education, urbanisation, and economic independence increase, particularly among women, the traditional framework of marriage is being reassessed. Couples now seek not merely stability, but emotional fulfilment, equality, and personal growth. Many are unwilling to remain in unions that do not offer mutual respect or happiness.
Consequently, marriage is no longer seen as an obligation to be endured, but a choice to be continuously justified.
This shift raises critical considerations. Should marriage primarily be about duty or personal satisfaction? Is longevity alone a measure of success, or should the quality of the relationship matter more? At what point does commitment become compromise at the expense of individual well-being?
Furthermore, financial pressures have complicated the institution. Rising living costs, career demands, and migration often leave couples with limited time to nurture their relationships. Lavish wedding ceremonies, widely celebrated on social media, sometimes mask the reality that many marriages struggle under economic strain soon after the festivities end.
It prompts another question: has society begun to prioritise the wedding over the marriage itself?
There is also the issue of changing gender roles. As both partners increasingly share breadwinning and domestic responsibilities, expectations must be renegotiated.
While this promotes fairness, it can also create friction where communication is lacking. Are couples adequately prepared for these new dynamics, or are many entering marriage guided by outdated assumptions?
Yet, despite these challenges, marriage continues to hold immense value. It offers companionship, emotional security, and a sense of belonging. It remains a vital environment for raising children and transmitting cultural values.
For many, it is still a source of strength and partnership in navigating life’s uncertainties.
Perhaps the real issue, then, is not whether marriage is losing relevance, but whether society is sufficiently adapting to support it. Are families, communities, and institutions doing enough to prepare young people for the responsibilities marriage demands?
Should premarital counselling, financial planning, and emotional education become more central to the conversation?
Marriage may no longer fit neatly into the definitions of the past, but it is far from obsolete. Instead, it stands at a crossroads — shaped by tradition, yet influenced by modern expectations.
Its future depends largely on how honestly society confronts the questions surrounding it.
Ultimately, the discussion about marriage is not merely about weddings or legal contracts. It is about values, priorities, and the kind of partnerships people hope to build in an ever-changing world.
And perhaps the most important question remains: what should marriage truly mean today?
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