Nollywood actress Eniola Ajao has opened up about the challenges she faced when she became pregnant at the age of 20. In a recent interview on the Talk To B podcast, the actress shared her experiences, highlighting the societal pressures that led her to hide her pregnancy. At the time, Ajao felt that the world was against her, and the stigma surrounding early pregnancy was overwhelming.

Ajao recounted how she isolated herself to avoid being labeled a “baby mama,” a term that carried significant shame and stigma. She noted that, in her community, there was an expectation to graduate and achieve certain milestones before settling down. As she was already studying at Yabatech when she became pregnant, Ajao felt the need to hide her condition from her parents and the public. Only close friends and family members were aware of her pregnancy.

The actress recalled feeling anxious about her future, worrying that she might not be able to get married due to the stigma surrounding early pregnancy. She also mentioned that, in her community, getting married at a young age was not uncommon, citing Omotola, who got married at 18, and others who married at 17. However, Ajao’s circumstances were different, and she felt the need to prioritize her education and career.

According to Media Talk Africa, Eniola Ajao gave birth to her son in May 2002, when she was just 20 years old. Now, at 44, the actress has reflected on her journey to motherhood, sharing her story to raise awareness about the challenges faced by young women in similar situations. By speaking out, Ajao hopes to help break down the stigma surrounding early pregnancy and encourage others to share their own experiences. Her story serves as a reminder that societal expectations can have a profound impact on individuals, particularly women, and that it’s essential to create a supportive environment for those navigating challenging circumstances.