Marriage counselor and cleric, Bisi Adewale, has cautioned against the growing trend of women travelling abroad for extended childcare support, popularly known as omugwo.
He expressed concern about the impact of long separations on families, especially elderly couples.
‘It Affects Marital Balance’
Speaking during a recent teaching session, Adewale said the practice often leaves elderly men alone while their wives remain abroad for years.
He described the situation as unhealthy for emotional connection and marital stability.
“Another thing I hate is for a woman to escape to Canada to do omugwo for three years… that’s how you’ll see a 75-year-old man going around to buy boli,” he said.
Calls for Joint Travel Decisions
The cleric advised couples to take joint decisions when it comes to travelling abroad for family support roles.
According to him, marriage should remain a partnership regardless of circumstances.
“If you’re going to Canada, we’re going together… I’ll get a hotel,” he added.
Concerns Over Family Separation
Adewale noted that prolonged separation can weaken companionship, especially in older marriages where emotional bonding is crucial.
He suggested that families should explore alternatives that keep couples together while fulfilling childcare responsibilities.
Wider Conversation on Migration and Family Life
His comments add to ongoing discussions in Nigeria about how migration and long-distance family arrangements are reshaping traditional family structures.
The debate around omugwo abroad continues to generate mixed reactions, especially among younger families navigating global relocation.
“Another thing I hate is for a woman to escape to Canada to do and do Omugwo for 3 years, it’s very bad. That’s how you’ll see a 75 years old man going around to buy Boli. If you’re going to Canada, we’re going together. If our child’s house can’t contain us, I have money, I’ll… pic.twitter.com/4y8KKzUXRO
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) April 28, 2026