A fresh debate has emerged within Nigeria’s Christian community following comments by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, who advised men not to marry women who lack cooking skills.
Adeboye made the remarks during the May edition of the church’s Holy Ghost Service, where he offered guidance on relationships and marriage. He warned that choosing a spouse based solely on physical appearance could lead to regret, describing such decisions as a “deep trap.”
According to the cleric, men should prioritise spiritual discernment and practical domestic abilities over beauty or social status. He illustrated his point with biblical references, including Sarah and the Shunamite woman, whom he described as hospitable and skilled in homemaking.
“Don’t marry a girl who cannot cook,” Adeboye said, adding that even prophetic assurances should not override such considerations.
However, his position has drawn criticism from the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy. The group’s International Secretary, Osazee William, argued that the pastor’s stance reflects personal opinion rather than scriptural doctrine.
Speaking in an interview, William emphasised that cooking should not be a defining criterion for marriage, noting that both men and women can acquire the skill over time.
“Is it scriptural for a man not to marry a woman who cannot cook? Even men can cook,” he said. “This is not opposition, but clarification—it is an opinion, not a standard.”
The cleric stressed that character, godliness and industriousness should carry greater weight in marital decisions. He added that focusing narrowly on domestic skills risks overlooking deeper qualities essential for a successful union.
William also pointed to evolving economic realities, where many women now serve as primary earners and may have limited time for household responsibilities. In such cases, he suggested, families could adapt by hiring help rather than making cooking ability a central issue.
“What about a good cook who lacks character?” he asked. “A person can learn how to cook, but values define a home.”
Adeboye’s comments also extended beyond cooking. He cautioned men against entering marriages that could lead to financial strain, advising them to reconsider wedding plans that might push them into debt.
Additionally, he warned against excessive use of cosmetics, urging men to look beyond outward appearance. Referencing biblical teachings, he suggested that heavy makeup could sometimes mask deeper issues.
The differing views highlight an ongoing conversation within religious circles about balancing traditional expectations with modern realities in marriage.
