My marriage… With Apostle Solomon Mustapha

My wife and I got married on April 13, 2002. As of October 2026, we have been married for 24 years.

How did you meet your wife?

I met my wife in my hometown, Isanlu, in Kogi State, through one of my sisters. She was a very quiet person. In fact, whenever I asked her a question, she rarely answered. I tried to engage her in conversation, but she didn’t speak freely or easily. Despite that, I was interested in her.

How did the relationship progress?

I started travelling to my hometown specifically because I wanted to see her. Her guardian was also very strict, so getting close to her was not particularly easy. Eventually, however, her guardian accommodated me, and the relationship began to progress. Later, she took me to meet her biological parents. We discussed the relationship and eventually agreed on a date for our wedding.

• Improved allocation helping Kogi pay salaries, do projects – Ododo
• Natasha facilitates NEMA relief distribution to Kogi flood victims
• NDC deputy national publicity secretary dumps party

Did you always have the assurance it would lead to marriage?

Yes, I did. In fact, I had a conviction given to my spirit about our wedding day, and I told her immediately.

How did she react to your proposal?

She reacted positively, but in those days, a lady would not necessarily give you an immediate yes. There was a certain modesty in how relationships were handled.

What advice would you give youths planning to get married?

Don’t rush into marriage. Ask God for direction before you enter into it. If you rush in, you might rush out. Marriage is too important a decision to be made carelessly. Young people should take time to understand the person they intend to marry and seek God’s direction before making that commitment. They should also learn to understand one another’s character, values, expectations, and approach to life. It is important to discuss issues that may affect the marriage, including finances, children, family relationships, and plans.

Chijioke Iremeka is a Senior Correspondent at Punch Newspapers with 19 years of professional experience. He has reported across multiple media houses in Nigeria, covering beats such as health, features, real estate, and insurance, and has received numerous journalism awards for his work. Chijioke’s reporting demonstrates extensive newsroom expertise, editorial judgment, and a dedication to truth, integrity, and excellence in journalism.