Kingsley Okonkwo, the senior pastor of David’s Christian Centre, has advised men to reconsider the kind of partners they choose, urging them to seek women who can contribute meaningfully to a shared future rather than those who depend entirely on them financially.

In a series of posts on social media, the relationship coach said the growing perception of marriage as a financial burden was discouraging many men from pursuing it.

According to him, men should begin to set clear standards in relationships, particularly when it comes to financial responsibility.

“Men, it’s high time we start having standards as well. You guys are too used to women who are liabilities, that’s why less and less men desire marriage, they see it as a burden,” he wrote.

Okonkwo suggested that men should focus on partners who are willing and able to build alongside them instead of individuals who rely solely on them for financial support.

“Men set standards like you won’t marry broke women too, that you want a partner and not a dependent, maybe it will make more women work and not see marriage and dating as a poverty alleviation scheme,” he added.

The cleric also criticised societal expectations that place the financial weight of relationships entirely on men, describing the mindset as unhealthy and inconsistent with biblical principles.

“The current system is not only unbiblical but also damaging the society,” he stated, adding that if some women insist on wealthy partners, men should equally value women who are industrious and capable of contributing financially.

Okonkwo further cautioned men against intentionally choosing financially vulnerable women as a means of exerting control in relationships.

“Yes, I know some of you men like the needy, hungry and dependent women because it boosts your ego and helps you control women, but it’s doing more harm than good,” he said, encouraging women to develop their abilities and pursue their own growth.