Nigerian relationship coach and pastor Kingsley Okonkwo has sparked debate with advice directed at women navigating modern relationships. Speaking at a recent event, he cautioned against men he described as “Mr Potential” and “Mr I Want to Marry a Virgin,” arguing that such attitudes often mask unrealistic expectations or unhealthy dynamics.
Okonkwo explained that “Mr Potential” refers to men whose promises of future success are not backed by present responsibility, while those fixated on marrying virgins may be driven more by control than genuine partnership. His remarks were framed as a call for women to prioritize respect, maturity, and shared values over superficial or restrictive criteria.
Public responses have been wide-ranging. Supporters applauded his candor, saying the advice resonates with challenges many women face in relationships where promises outweigh action. Critics, however, accused him of oversimplifying complex cultural and religious perspectives, noting that ideas about purity and potential remain deeply rooted in Nigerian society.
On social media, the conversation quickly gained traction. Some users praised Okonkwo for challenging outdated norms, while others argued that his comments risk alienating men who hold traditional views. International observers highlighted the episode as part of a broader global debate about gender roles, expectations, and the evolving definition of partnership in contemporary relationships.
For many, Okonkwo’s remarks underscore the tension between tradition and modernity in Nigerian society, reflecting how personal choices in marriage and relationships are increasingly shaped by public discourse and cultural shifts.
