My marriage… With Dr Israel Oyeniyi (Praizmania)

Dr. Israel Oyeniyi, widely known as Praizmania, reflects on his 23-year marriage, sharing a journey that began 30 years ago when he met his wife, Lydia Olasunkanmi. Oyeniyi, a multifaceted figure in music ministry, radio and television hosting, and event anchoring, recounted how Lydia joined his musical band in Lagos. From their first encounter, he felt a profound conviction that she would become his wife, attracted by her qualities.

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The very first day I saw her, I knew she was going to be my wife. Everything about her attracted me, and I was deeply convinced.

Initially, Lydia was hesitant after Oyeniyi expressed his intentions through a letter, fearing it might lead to promiscuity. However, she eventually returned, and their friendship blossomed over seven years before they married in 2003. Oyeniyi noted that he met his wife's parents later, but they accepted him upon seeing his commitment.

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She became embarrassed and stopped attending band rehearsals because she thought I wanted to make her another victim of promiscuity.

The couple is blessed with one daughter. Oyeniyi described their marriage as filled with memorable moments, characterized by constant conversation, prayer, shared musical performances, and abundant humor. He highlighted his wife's submissive, contented, understanding, supportive, and God-fearing nature, considering himself exceptionally lucky.

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I can boldly say virtually every moment of our marriage has been memorable. We gist a lot, pray together, sing together on stage, and bond through hilarious jokes.

When asked for advice for younger couples, Oyeniyi stressed the paramount importance of a God-fearing partner, stating it ensures 80% of a successful marriage. He also advised couples to marry their best friend, be honest about their past, and foster genuine love. Addressing the rising rate of marriage breakups in Nigeria, he attributed it to various factors and reiterated the need for true friendship and acceptance within marriage.

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To me, having other desirable qualities in a spouse is not as important as being God-fearing. When you marry a God-fearing partner, you are already 80 per cent assured of having an enjoyable marriage rather than merely enduring it.