Shaffy Bello Urges Women to Rethink Financial Expectations in Relationships

Kehinde Adeleye

Veteran Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has spoken out on the growing issue of unrealistic financial expectations placed on men during the dating phase, urging women to focus on building their own financial independence.
During a recent episode of the Dear Ife Podcast, hosted by Ifedayo Agoro, Shaffy highlighted how this mindset affects both young and mature women. She challenged the widely held belief that a man must be wealthy before a woman can consider dating him.
“Why wait for a wealthy man to come along and change your life? Be the successful woman you are waiting for. When the right man arrives, that will just be a bonus,” she said.
Shaffy stressed that such expectations create pressure on men and limit women’s own potential for financial growth. She encouraged women to prioritize building their own wealth and confidence, and to look beyond material possessions or social status when choosing a partner.
Highlighting the true qualities that define a man, she named character, ambition, and a willingness to grow as key traits to value in a relationship.
“By the third date, you should already be thinking about building a future together. If it is only about spending money, that is not sustainable,” Shaffy added.
Her candid advice resonates with ongoing conversations around gender roles, financial independence, and healthy relationship dynamics.