Renowned singer Timaya has opened up about his deliberate choice to remain unmarried, while sharing insights into his successful co-parenting arrangement with the mothers of his four children.
During a revealing interview with NAIJA FM, the “Dem Mama” crooner expressed deep-seated concerns about the permanence of marriage compared to relationships, suggesting that the institution’s binding nature gives him pause. “I’ve never been a marriage guy right from time but it can change, because marriage dey crase? I just look at it like if I marry today, would I be able to get out?” the artist candidly shared, highlighting his preference for maintaining the freedom to leave situations that no longer serve him.
The conversation offered a rare glimpse into Timaya’s personal philosophy about relationships and commitment. His emphasis on the ability to exit uncomfortable situations stems from past experiences, as he noted, “In all my previous relationships, I was the one who got out because I don’t like stress.” This perspective reflects a growing conversation in Nigerian society about marriage, commitment, and personal freedom.
“I have four kids. Being a father is enjoyable.”
– Timaya pic.twitter.com/Oqkwpg9DO1
β @πΌπ»π²π·πΌπ―πΉπ²πππ―πΌπ (@OneJoblessBoy) December 2, 2024
The artist’s approach to communication in relationships reveals a thoughtful consideration of mental health and emotional well-being. “If you have a problem with me, let’s talk about it because I don’t like going to bed thinking about things, I go die o. I don’t like anything to bother me at all,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues head-on rather than letting them fester.
Perhaps most intriguing is Timaya’s detailed description of his co-parenting arrangement, which offers a modern perspective on family dynamics outside traditional marriage structures. Despite his children living primarily with their mothers, he maintains strong bonds through extended stays at his home, particularly during holiday periods like Christmas.
The singer’s description of his relationship with his children’s mothers demonstrates a mature approach to modern family dynamics. “We’re all family now so I can’t date any of them, we’re family now and we respect each other,” he explained, highlighting how former romantic partners can transition into respectful co-parents. This arrangement, while unconventional by traditional Nigerian standards, appears to prioritize the children’s well-being while maintaining healthy boundaries among the adults involved.
Timaya’s openness about his parenting style challenges traditional Nigerian family structures while demonstrating that effective parenting can exist outside conventional marriage frameworks. His approach to maintaining relationships with his children through scheduled visits and holiday arrangements shows a structured and intentional approach to fatherhood, even without the traditional family unit.
The artist’s revelations come at a time when Nigerian society is experiencing evolving attitudes toward marriage and family structures. His perspective adds to growing discussions about alternative family arrangements and the changing nature of relationships in contemporary African society.
Social media reactions to Timaya’s interview have been mixed, with some praising his honesty and modern approach to family life, while others express concern about the impact of such arrangements on traditional family values. However, the singer’s success in maintaining positive relationships with both his children and their mothers suggests a working model for modern co-parenting.
The interview also sheds light on the psychological aspects of commitment and relationship dynamics, particularly Timaya’s emphasis on mental peace and emotional well-being. His preference for clear communication and resolution of conflicts reflects a growing awareness of mental health considerations in relationships.
As Nigerian society continues to evolve, Timaya’s candid discussion of his choices and family arrangements contributes to an important dialogue about the changing nature of relationships, marriage, and parenting in contemporary Africa. His experience demonstrates that successful family life can take various forms, challenging traditional assumptions while maintaining strong family bonds and responsible parenting.
