Why I avoid roles that can cause marital problems

Wofai Fada

Actress and comedian Wofai Fada has said she deliberately turns down movie roles that could create tension in her marriage, stressing her commitment to protecting her family.

In an interview with Saturday Beats, Fada shared that Valentine’s Day, for her, is less about personal celebration and more about creating memorable experiences for others. She explained that over the years, she has focused on hosting guests at her restaurant, curating special menus and romantic moments.

“Every Valentine’s Day, I think about how to serve people and make them feel comfortable. We plan menus and bring people together. Sometimes, proposals happen at the restaurant. We play love songs, and occasionally invite an artist to perform. That’s how we enjoy ourselves—seeing others happy,” she said.

The actress noted that she and her husband typically celebrate privately after the Valentine’s rush, often opting for a quiet dinner and time away together. According to her, such getaways are part of their regular routine and not exclusively tied to the holiday.

This year’s celebration, she added, is unique due to the opening of a new Abuja branch of her restaurant brand, JustAfang. She expressed curiosity about how residents of the capital city would embrace Valentine’s Day festivities, observing that Lagos customers tend to be more outgoing, while Abuja residents are generally more reserved. She recalled that a marriage proposal took place at her Lagos outlet last year.

Speaking on relationships, Fada emphasised the importance of financial stability in sustaining marriages, particularly when children are involved. She reflected on her upbringing and the strain financial hardship can place on families, noting that when couples struggle financially, children often bear the consequences.

Addressing stereotypes about actors, she dismissed assumptions that on-screen romance translates to real-life affairs. She said she has rejected roles that might spark unnecessary controversy or misunderstandings in her home. “People assume that because you act love scenes, something is happening off-screen. That’s not true. I have children and I want to protect my family,” she stated.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Fada admitted that she once prioritised love over her career. However, after experiencing heartbreak, she shifted her focus and began building her professional life more intentionally.

She also shared that learning to relinquish control in her marriage helped her grow. According to her, allowing her husband to lead strengthened their bond and enabled her to better embrace her femininity.

On whether love is found or built, Fada likened it to nurturing a flower. She believes love must first be discovered and then carefully cultivated to thrive. As for love at first sight, she said her perspective has evolved with age. While she once fell for physical appearance alone, she now values deeper conversations and shared vision over initial attraction.