In a candid and empowering conversation that's already igniting conversations across Nigeria and beyond, Big Brother Naija winner Mercy Eke has declared her readiness to embrace motherhood without the constraints of traditional marriage. The 32-year-old entrepreneur, actress, and reality TV icon shared her heartfelt plans during a recent interview, emphasizing her financial independence and unyielding focus on personal goals as she charts her path to building the family she's always envisioned.
"I'm ready to have a child outside marriage," Eke stated boldly, reflecting on a pivotal moment earlier this year when she contemplated starting a family but chose to prioritize her career milestone. "This year, I wanted to have a baby—something happened, and I had to choose between that and the baby. At this point, I think if I get pregnant now, I'm just going to have my baby. I've worked so hard, and I think I can take care of myself and three kids. I'm a goal-oriented person that always sets things ahead for myself."
Eke, who dreams of welcoming two girls and one boy into the world, dismissed societal stigmas surrounding single motherhood, particularly for women of means. "One thing people don't know is that all this stigma applies to people that don't really have things going on well for them," she explained. "If you see the women that are shattering glasses, men are begging them for marriage. Like this, if I want to marry tomorrow, it's just that what I want, I've not seen it." Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the evolving landscape of womanhood in modern Africa, where financial autonomy often reshapes outdated narratives around family and fulfillment.
The interview, conducted with media personality Hero Daniel, comes at a transformative time for Eke. Fresh off launching her latest fashion line and starring in the hit Nollywood film Echoes of the Heart, the "Queen of Highlights" – a nickname earned from her 2019 BBNaija "Pepper Dem" victory – continues to redefine success on her terms. Eke's journey from beauty queen to business mogul has been marked by resilience; she has built a multimillion-naira empire through her clothing brand, real estate investments, and endorsements with global giants like L'Oréal and Pepsi.
Eke's openness has resonated deeply with fans and peers alike, sparking a wave of support on social media. The #MercyEkeMommy hashtag trended nationwide on X (formerly Twitter), with users praising her for challenging taboos. "Mercy is out here living unapologetically – that's the energy we need! Queens build their own kingdoms," tweeted influencer Toke Makinwa, who added, "Proud of you, sis. Motherhood your way." Fellow BBNaija alumna Khafi Kareem echoed the sentiment: "As a single mom myself, I see you, Mercy. Your strength inspires us all to rewrite the rules."
This isn't the first time Eke has broached the topic of family and independence. In past interviews, she has expressed a preference for marriage before motherhood but has increasingly leaned into surrogacy and sperm donation as viable options, underscoring her desire for a child above all else. "Husband dey hungry me, but I feel like I’m much more ready to have a little one," she shared previously, highlighting the internal tug-of-war between societal expectations and personal readiness.
Eke's revelation aligns with a broader cultural shift, as more African women – from celebrities like Tiwa Savage to everyday trailblazers – prioritize self-determination over convention. Women's rights advocates have lauded her for amplifying voices often silenced by judgment. "Mercy's story normalizes choice and capability for women," said Dr. Aisha Bello, founder of the Lagos Women's Empowerment Network. "It's a call to dismantle the shame around single motherhood and celebrate the diverse ways we build legacies."
As Eke looks ahead, she remains focused on her empire while keeping the door open to love. "I'm a fine girl; I'll get married to a fine man so my kids will be fine," she quipped with her trademark humor, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in her story.
For more on Mercy Eke's journey and upcoming projects, visit mercyeke.com. High-resolution photos from the interview and exclusive clips available upon request.
About Mercy Eke
Mercy Eke is a Nigerian actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist best known as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 4 (2019). With a career spanning film, fashion, and media, she has become a symbol of empowerment for young women across Africa. Through her foundation, Mercy Eke Outreach, she supports education and entrepreneurship for underprivileged girls. Eke's unfiltered authenticity and business acumen have earned her a spot on Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 list.
@love360_ng ♬ original sound - LOVE360.NG
Entertainment Factory!