Based on her personal experiences and her role in the television series Sands of Time, veteran Nollywood actress Chinyere Wilfred has provided insightful commentary on modern parenting and the increasing instability of marriages among today’s youth.
In a special interview with The Nation, Wilfred voiced her worries about the current trend of broken households and changing family relations, which she blames on a decline in traditional values and the growing impact 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.
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