A Nigerian woman has gone viral after saying she will never change her surname after marriage. In a video shared Wednesday, Uba told potential suitors that while her children could take their father’s name, she will keep hers.
“I’m not going to change my name for no man,” she said. “I don’t bloody care about the children carrying their father’s name, but I’m not changing mine until I die.”
She also revealed she may include this in a prenuptial agreement, making it clear her future husband cannot force her to change her name. She ended the video with a warning: “If you don’t want it, move.”
The video has sparked debate online. Some criticized her, citing Nigerian traditions where wives usually take their husband’s surname. @OParamole wrote, “This is Africa. We have cultures and traditions… Now this set of unreasonable elements are trying to change that culture.”
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Others supported her choice. @Handyleema said, “It’s her personal choice. As a Muslim, I will maintain my father’s name.” @MindOfNaijaLife added, “It’s about identity vs ownership. If two adults can’t agree on something this small, bigger issues will be harder to handle later.”
Some were skeptical about her resolve. @DaSTReet5 commented, “Wait until a big-shot like Davido or Burna Boy proposes. They’ll rush to start using that powerful surname.” @MaziiObi said, “She’s not serious. She should remain single.”
The video has reignited conversations about personal identity, marriage traditions, and evolving cultural norms in Nigeria.