Financial independence: To be or not to be?

Most women activists preach financial independence for every woman. But on the other hand some women argue that if their husbands are well-to-do and can take care of their need, being financially independent doesn’t really matter. The question many ask is ‘is financial independence necessary for a woman if her husband is well to do?” […]

Most women activists preach financial independence for every woman. But on the other hand some women argue that if their husbands are well-to-do and can take care of their need, being financially independent doesn’t really matter. The question many ask is ‘is financial independence necessary for a woman if her husband is well to do?”
Omolara Abioye, 36-year-old chemist, says “No matter what, I’ll surely find my independence even when my partner can afford everything for me. I see no point sitting idle at home when I can offer my talent to the world. God gave me certain gifts and they wouldn’t be fully utilized if I were at home. I don’t work just for the money but to help and to make a difference. If the money wasn’t needed it would give me something to help others with.”
Hauwa Ahmed, 40-year-old lawyer, says “Even if my husband is well-to-do, I also need to learn how to stand on my own as well, at least financially. Nothing feels good for a lady as being independent. I would still work with my whole heart. Not that I wouldn’t appreciate what he gives me, I will, but I would rather learn how to fish as well than being given fish every day. There is so much joy and contentment knowing that I can do something for myself without having to depend on any other person for survival.”
Aisha Auta, 38-year-old lawyer, also said, “Financial independence for a woman is necessary even if her partner is well-to-do. A man can never give a woman as much money that will meet all her needs. Even if he does, there will come a time when such gestures will be used against her. My philosophy when it comes to financial independence is, never to allow a man use money as a power tool, never!”
For Blessing Udeze, 39-year-old accountant says “If I have to be sincere, I would say no, I wouldn’t work if my husband was well-to-do. As far as my husband keeps fuelling my account and meeting my needs nonstop I won’t work. I will gladly be a full time house wife and have time for my children and the home front. But on second thought, these days some men are not to be trusted; they tell you something else and end up doing another thing. In reality, every woman should be financially independent no matter what because you don’t know what the future holds for anyone.”
Ummi Usman, 38-year-old civil servant says, “If my husband is well-to-do, I would rather go into a business venture than to sit idle and do nothing. Going into a business will allow me to also contribute to the upkeep of the home and not be too financially dependent on him. It’s more gracious to put a fair share financially into a relationship than nothing at all. For me, that’s what will work, there are others who might have different opinions, but whatever works for you, make sure it doesn’t lead to resentment down the road.”