Failed Marriage Escape Saved Me From HIV, Hepatitis B, Says Na'ima Afemai

Nigerian woman, Na'ima Afemai, has shared profound reflections on her dissolved marriage, stating that remaining in the union would have led to a life of misery, excessive religiosity, and constant visits to hospitals and pharmacies for recurring infections. In a social media post dated Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Afemai opened up about her life post-divorce, expressing deep gratitude for her courage to leave the marriage. She highlighted prioritizing self-respect over societal pressures and choosing her own well-being, even as a young girl.

“Sometimes, I sit and wonder what my life would have looked like if I was still married,” she penned. “I know for a fact I'd have had a miserable life. I know for a fact that I'd have been a religious, wicked pickme woman with maybe two children. I know for a fact that I'd have been living life trying to please Adam wey no send my papa like that.”

Afemai further elaborated on the potential health consequences, stating, “I know for a fact that I'd have been a returning patients to hospitals and pharmacies, buying infection medication here and there. Infact, I fit don contact HIV or hepatitis b.”

She continued to recount her journey, giving thanks for the strength she found to depart. “Everyday, I look back and I thank the courage that surrounded me the day I packed out. I didn't know where I got the audacity from that day but I did it. I look back and I am grateful I didn't stay to 'manage' because no marriage is perfect.”

Expressing contentment with her current autonomy, Afemai added, “I look back and I am happy that I have control over my life and that I am the driver of my life and no one else. I look back and I am pleased that I chose myself. I put myself first despite being a very young girl then.”

She also reflected on her past views, admitting, “I'd definitely be online fighting feminists for teaching me how to know my worth and have standards. I am truly grateful for every single thing. And if I had not experienced marriage earlier in life, I'd have still being a pickme looking to be picked. I'd have been desperate to be married and nothing feminist tell me not to be desperate will ever enter my ears because they are just haters and unhappy women.”

However, her personal experience changed her perspective. “But now that I have had my own experience and share, when they talk, I quickly grasp and understand what they are saying because I have been there before. I am very much grateful for the experience of my failed marriage and I'd never trade that experience for anything!”