Speaking during a recent episode of the MENtality Podcast hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Makinwa argued that many Nigerian men place too much emphasis on financial provision while paying less attention to emotional connection, communication and personal engagement.
According to her, the common perception that many Nigerian women are excessively materialistic is partly a consequence of how some men approach romantic relationships.
Makinwa suggested that a significant number of men equate financial generosity with affection and often believe that money alone is sufficient to attract and retain a partner.
She explained that, in her experience, some men are quick to offer financial assistance or expensive gifts instead of taking time to build genuine emotional connections and get to know the person they are interested in.
“From time immemorial, a relationship between a man and a woman has always been transactional, right from the Garden of Eden, right from our parents’ days,” she said.
The actress further argued that the increasing material expectations seen in some relationships today cannot be blamed solely on women.
“And the degree at which it is happening now, I will blame the men. Sometimes, that is all men have to offer. Nigerian men don’t have games aside from money. Once a Nigerian man makes money, he starts throwing it at the hottest girls,” she stated.
Makinwa noted that there have been occasions when she wanted to build a genuine connection with a man but found that he immediately resorted to financial gestures rather than meaningful conversation or emotional investment.
“Sometimes, you meet a man and you want to know him, but he is offering you money. Men have offered women the strangest things and it made me realise that men feel cash is all they need to show you,” she added.
She further claimed that the culture of women making material demands in relationships has, to a large extent, been shaped by men’s behaviour over time.
“Most girls who are materialistic today, men taught them how to make demands,” Makinwa said.
According to the media personality, repeated exposure to relationships centred around financial benefits has encouraged some women to place greater value on material gain because they perceive it as the primary contribution many men are willing to make.
Her comments have since generated widespread reactions online, with opinions divided among social media users.
While some agreed with her assertion that emotional intelligence and communication are often overlooked in relationships, others argued that her remarks unfairly generalised Nigerian men and failed to acknowledge the complexities of modern dating.
The discussion has reignited broader conversations about gender expectations, financial responsibility, emotional availability and the evolving dynamics of relationships in contemporary Nigerian society.
As debate continues, Makinwa’s comments have once again highlighted the differing perspectives on what constitutes a healthy and meaningful relationship, particularly in an era where financial success and social status often play a significant role in romantic interactions.