Kadiri shared her views in a video posted on Instagram, where she questioned why some couples who have enjoyed happy relationships for years begin to experience fear and uncertainty when preparing for marriage.
According to the actress, the pressure to organise grand celebrations can affect couples mentally and financially, making the transition from dating to married life more stressful than necessary.
She encouraged young couples to prioritise their relationship and commitment to each other rather than trying to meet society’s expectations through multiple wedding ceremonies.
Kadiri suggested that couples could keep their celebrations simple by completing their traditional and legal marriage requirements, inviting a small number of family members and close friends, and celebrating privately without spending beyond their means.
The actress, who has been married for about seven years, said she believes that avoiding an elaborate wedding contributed to her own experience of married life.
She also criticised the pressure surrounding traditional engagements, court weddings, white weddings and other ceremonies, noting that some people feel their marriages will not succeed unless they follow every expected tradition.
Beyond wedding expenses, Kadiri called on parents to stop placing excessive pressure on their children to become financially successful and provide money for the family.
She particularly highlighted the expectations placed on young people, including firstborn children, who are often expected to carry significant family responsibilities while trying to build their own lives.
Kadiri maintained that success means different things to different people and should not be measured only by wealth, career achievements or the ability to satisfy other people’s expectations.
She urged young Nigerians to make decisions that protect their peace of mind and happiness instead of living to impress society.
Her comments have renewed conversations about the rising cost of weddings in Nigeria and the financial, emotional and social pressures couples face when planning to get married.
