A Nigerian marriage counsellor, Bisi Adewale, has advised women against travelling abroad for prolonged childcare duties, popularly known as omugwo, without their husbands, warning that such absences could strain marriages and leave elderly spouses neglected.
Adewale, founder of Family Booster Ministry International and the College of Marital Success, gave the warning in a video shared on his Facebook page on Monday.
He criticised the growing trend of women relocating overseas for extended periods to care for grandchildren, describing it as detrimental to family stability.
According to him, leaving an elderly husband behind for years exposes the man to hardship and loneliness, particularly at an advanced age when companionship is crucial.
The cleric revealed that he and his wife had reached an understanding to always travel together regardless of their children’s location, stressing that unity should be maintained even when family responsibilities arise abroad.
He added that couples must prioritise their relationship, noting that alternative arrangements such as temporary accommodation could be made where necessary.
Using medical scenarios to illustrate his point, Adewale emphasised the importance of spousal presence throughout life, stating that just as children are expected to be accompanied by their mothers during medical visits, elderly men equally need their wives by their side.
He further cautioned men against mistreating their wives, warning that such actions could have long-term consequences.
Adewale explained that the role of a wife evolves over time—from a partner in youth to a caregiver in old age—arguing that mutual support becomes most critical in later years when couples depend heavily on each other for care and companionship.