Veteran Nollywood actor Chiwetalu Agu has advised women to establish full personal stability—mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially—before entering marriage.

In an Instagram video, Agu emphasized that a woman’s completeness should not depend on being married. He explained that marriage should complement a woman’s life, not define or complete it.

“The best advice I can give you as a lady before you embark on the journey of marriage is to be a complete woman before you marry. Make sure you are mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially stable. Marriage is not what completes you. Your work, identity, and sense of fulfillment should come from within,” he said.

Agu further stressed the importance of financial and spiritual independence. He encouraged women to build a career, business, or skill—even if small—so they can withstand challenges such as divorce, widowhood, or difficult in-laws.

“Before you marry, build yourself up. At least have something you are working on—a business idea or insight into independence. Do not rely entirely on your husband for emotional, social, or financial support, because if that support is withdrawn, you may become helpless,” he warned.

The actor also highlighted the harsh realities widows, divorced women, and single mothers often face in society. He noted that in-laws may claim a widow’s late husband’s assets if she has no foundation of her own, and that divorce or abandonment can force women to restart their lives from scratch.

Agu concluded by urging women to prioritize self-development, independence, and self-worth, cautioning that viewing marriage as the ultimate goal can limit personal growth and lead to settling for less than they deserve.

“The earlier you establish your brand, identity, dreams, and strength as a woman, the better. Marriage should be an addition to your life, not the source of your purpose or fulfillment. The choices you make today shape what your tomorrow will look like,” he said.