“The Only Thing I Owned When I Met My Wife Was My Tribal Mark” – Actor Sanyeri Opens Up on Marriage with Wife Omolara

Popular Nollywood comic actor Olaniyi Afonja, known as Sanyeri, and his wife Omolara have shared the highs and lows of their marriage in a candid interview with Tofarati Ige. The couple, who have been together for nearly two decades and married for ten years, spoke openly about love, patience, humility, and growth.

How They Met

Sanyeri revealed that he met Omolara in 2004 at the National Theatre, Lagos, where he was screening his movie Okan Emi. Though his first attempt to get her attention was dismissed, he met her again a month later and gradually convinced her to give him a chance.

“She thought I was chasing her just because I had a movie out. But I kept trying until she agreed,” Sanyeri said.

Omolara, on her part, admitted that although she was hesitant due to his career, she was eventually drawn to his persistence, honesty, and caring nature.

The Proposal and Early Marriage

There was no fancy proposal, Sanyeri confessed. With little money at the time, he simply told her he wanted to marry her—and she agreed. Omolara believed in his future and appreciated his sincerity.

“I believed he had a bright future. I’m happy for where we are today,” she said.

Despite their humble beginnings, the couple said love and mutual understanding held them together.

Family Support

Omolara’s parents were supportive once she assured them she had made her choice. They asked basic questions about Sanyeri’s background and expressed concerns about whether he would change after becoming successful. Eventually, they gave their blessings.

Life as a Couple

Both described their relationship as peaceful but not perfect, acknowledging that disagreements are normal. What makes the difference is how they resolve issues privately without involving outsiders.

“My wife doesn’t see me as a star. She sees me as Niyi, her husband,” Sanyeri noted.

“I don’t like involving a third party. I tell him the truth, and he does the same,” Omolara added.

Personalities and Parenting

Omolara described her husband as a deep thinker who doesn’t talk much off-camera. Sanyeri praised Omolara as someone who loves to laugh and brings joy into their home. They share the same pet name “Ola” and often use it for their children too.

Marriage Challenges and Advice

They admitted that marriage requires tolerance, communication, and faith in God.

“Marriage isn’t easy. Even siblings fight. But understanding each other is key,” Sanyeri said.

The couple believes that money is crucial to sustaining a marriage but not the foundation. Sanyeri emphasized the importance of men fulfilling their responsibilities at home and respecting their partners.

Female Fans and Public Life

Despite his popularity, Omolara said she’s never had an issue with Sanyeri’s female fans.

“Even when fans hug or kiss him abroad, I don’t mind. His fans made him who he is,” she said.

Final Words

Reflecting on their journey, the couple stressed that true love, patience, and shared values have helped them overcome challenges. Omolara also gave credit to God for the strength to navigate married life with a public figure.

“We’ve had ups and downs, but we don’t carry our fights outside. We’re a team,” they both agreed.

Their story is a reminder that fame and money may follow later, but it’s trust and understanding that sustain a relationship.