Celebrated Nollywood actress Iniobong Edo has revealed that marriage is no longer a focus for her, as she currently has no aspirations or prayers directed towards it. In an exclusive interview on Wednesday, the 42-year-old star candidly shared her views on relationships, her career, and motherhood.
Edo, who married Nigerian-American businessman Philip Ehiagwina in a 2008 ceremony held in the United States, saw her marriage come to an end in 2014. Reflecting on the experience, she admitted that family pressure had played a significant role in her decision to marry, a choice she now views with some regret.

Recently, the actress stirred excitement online when she posted an image of herself in a traditional Efik bridal attire, fueling rumors of an upcoming wedding. The post, however, turned out to be part of a promotion for her new series My Fairytale Wedding, a four-part show about a young woman using magic to win over the most eligible bachelor in Lagos. Fans soon realized the post was for the project rather than her personal life.

Speaking about her stance on marriage, Ini Edo told this newspaper, “I’m not crazy about marriage; I’m more focused on having solid relationships. It’s not on my list of prayers right now.” Despite this, the actress remains open to the possibility of remarriage if the right person comes along.

Ini, who began her career in 2000 and has since starred in over 200 films, also highlighted the rising influence of women in Nollywood. She praised trailblazers like Bolanle Austen-Peters, Funke Akindele, and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, noting how women now dominate the industry. “Women are taking their rightful place,” she said. “The playing field is level for both men and women, and if a woman wants to achieve something, she will.”

Apart from her career in film, Ini Edo has embraced motherhood through surrogacy. After suffering multiple miscarriages, she made the decision in 2021 to welcome her daughter via surrogacy, using her own eggs. The actress expressed her gratitude for the chance to experience motherhood in this way, calling it the best choice for her.

The Akwa Ibom-born star has not only left an indelible mark on Nollywood but has also ventured into entrepreneurship with her fashion and cosmetics line, Secrets of April, and co-produced the popular Netflix series Shanty Town in 2023. Her humanitarian work through her NGO, GEMS Africa, focuses on empowering young women, and she continues to serve as a special assistant on culture and tourism for Akwa Ibom state.

Ini Edo remains a shining figure in Nollywood, balancing her illustrious career, motherhood, and philanthropic work with grace and determination.