Veteran Nigerian Actress, Chinyere Wilfred Speaks On Gen Z Parenting And Marriage Crisis

Veteran Nollywood actress Chinyere Wilfred has offered thoughtful insights on contemporary parenting and the growing instability of marriages among today’s youth, drawing from both her personal experiences and her role in the TV series Sands of Time.

Speaking in an exclusive chat with The Nation, Wilfred expressed concern about the current wave of broken homes and shifting family dynamics, which she attributes to a lack of traditional values and the rising influence of Gen Z culture.

“Parents of this generation are Gen Z parents,” she began. “Back in the day, our parents wouldn’t do most of the things we see today.

"Look at what is happening to marriages now — you buy aso ebi and before you blink, they’ve broken up. We were not like that before. I’ve been married for over 30 years and I’m still happily married.”

The actress, who plays “Mama Bomboy” in ‘Sands of Time’, a strong-willed African mother, said the role made her re-evaluate her parenting style.

“While shooting, I saw myself in that character. I realised I was overreacting with my children. During the act, I didn’t notice it, but while watching the playback, I saw my faults,” she admitted.

“When I got home, I calmed down with my son, I won’t lie. Even now, at this time they say Gen Z this and that, he still can’t sleep out—even though he is a graduate. I thought I was protecting them, but I was overprotecting them.”

Wilfred believes ‘Sands of Time’ carries a powerful message, especially for African mothers who often confuse love with excessive control.

“The series will teach mothers to listen more and loosen up,” she said.