Veteran Actress Lola Idije Opens Up About Single Parenting, Trust & Life

By 9jafinds Editorial Team

Few voices in Nollywood command as much authenticity as that of veteran Yoruba actress Lola Idije (real name Toyin Afolayan). Known for her decades-long career and cultural influence—especially popularizing the phrase “sóro sókè”—the actress recently spoke candidly about one of the most pressing realities many women face: the struggles of single parenting, societal judgment, and the complexity of trust.

In a heartfelt conversation with fellow actress Ayo Adesanya, Lola Idije peeled back the glamour of celebrity life to reveal a story that resonates with countless women across Nigeria and the diaspora.

The Weight of Single Parenting

Speaking in Yoruba, Lola Idije emphasized that “single parenting is not an easy road at all.” For her, it has meant carrying the full weight of family responsibilities—school fees, daily upkeep, and emotional support—without the safety net of a partner.

She explained that while relatives and friends often promise assistance, those promises rarely translate into real help. Many single parents, she noted, are left to fight silent battles while still showing strength for their children.

This candid truth mirrors the lived experiences of many Nigerian women, highlighting the urgent need for conversations around financial literacy, community support, and policy reform.

On Men, Respect, and Industry Misconceptions

Lola Idije did not hold back when addressing how women—particularly actresses—are often perceived. She lamented that many men approach relationships with unserious intentions, sometimes treating them as a bet or challenge.

According to her, some men wrongly assume that actresses can be “bought” with as little as ₦500,000, a mindset that not only disrespects the women but also diminishes the craft and professionalism of Nollywood.

Her words serve as a reminder that respect and integrity must remain central in how society views women, regardless of profession.

“Trust No One” – A Painful But Necessary Reminder

The actress also issued a stern warning about trust. For single mothers, misplaced trust can lead to further heartbreak or disappointment.

“It is painful,” she explained, “when people who can afford to support single parents choose instead to flex, while women who are struggling are left to carry the burden alone.”

Yet, despite this harsh reality, Lola Idije’s message is not one of despair but of resilience. Women, she affirmed, keep pushing—for their children, for their future, for survival.

Why This Story Matters

Lola Idije’s revelations go beyond celebrity gossip. They reflect wider societal truths:

• The challenges of single parenting in Nigeria.
• The misrepresentation of women in Nollywood.
• The urgent call for community accountability and structural support.

For the Nigerian diaspora, her words are a reminder that behind every Nollywood star is a deeply human story of endurance and grit.

9jafinds: Amplifying Nigerian Voices Globally

At 9jafinds.com, we believe stories like Lola Idije’s deserve a global stage. As the No.1 hub for Nigerian culture, commerce, and community, our mission is to spotlight narratives that inform, inspire, and empower.

In a media landscape dominated by global giants like The Shade Room (3.5B cross-platform actions), Bleacher Report(1.7B), and Complex (942M), 9jafinds is positioning itself among the Top 10 digital publishing brands shaping culture. Our focus? To make Nigerian voices and stories discoverable, respected, and celebrated across the world.

From breaking news and Nollywood features to evergreen guides, diaspora resources, and curated shopping via 9jafinds.com/shop, we’re building an ecosystem where entertainment meets empowerment.

In conclusion

Lola Idije’s courage to speak on single parenting, respect, and trust is a gift to both her peers and the younger generation. Her story is not just about one actress—it is about every Nigerian woman striving to raise children with dignity in a society that often underestimates her strength.

As she reminds us, the journey is difficult, but the resilience of women is unmatched.

And at 9jafinds, we’ll keep telling these stories—because they matter.

Credits: Interview with Ayo Adesanya, words by veteran actress Lola Idije (Toyin Afolayan).
Read more on Nollywood and Nigerian culture at 9jafinds.com.