It was a low key family celebration that the discussion started between aunties and uncles gathered for a quick brunch. In between munching barbecue fish and smoky jollof in platters, sipping mulled wine in cups the conversation carried on.
You would think it was a conversation about investment, fashion trends, security, politics or career development. You could even think it was the unravelling of trade secrets, business trends or health issues. Such was the animated concentration of the discussants about a worrying phenomenon.
Have you not noticed the proliferation of single, accomplished men and women in their 30s? Such folks are holding down incredible jobs as realtors, travel consultants, lounge managers, bankers, artistes and beauty merchants. Others control immense portfolios in entertainment, aviation, hospitality and wellness. They are successful at these ventures judging by the affluence surrounding them.
They drive latest cars, live in exclusive estates and deck out in handsome fineries like watches, bone straight wigs, jewellery, designer shoes and bags. They drive top of the range cars. Their networth is screaming bling bling.
Take the case of Richard , a 37 year old lawyer and partner in a rising law firm. He co owns a lounge in mainland Lagos and has a fleet of Bolt cars on hire purchase. He lives in Ikoyi, employs a driver, cook, housekeeper and personal assistant. He’s an efficient machine on the professional front but a massive novice in relationships.
There’s also 38 year old Cathy who looks much younger because of grooming and wealth around her. She lives in a Lekki estate and is a top shot at an investment firm. She’s always on the road nailing fresh deals for her company.
These people are successful at work but woeful failures in relationships. They all declare their desire to get married and start a family but are consumed with unrealistic expectations. Imagine the fixation on getting hitched to a spec, soulmate and other such funny shopping lists.
That’s why a group of aunties have taken it upon themselves to set up a unique matchmaking agency. Certainly, everyone has a nephew or niece who’s unmarried in their 30s, the trick is to compile their names, interests and search out likely candidates for relationships among friends, neighbours, church folks and professional colleagues.
It’s an intentional service to help these Gen Z choose life partners from a pool of screened and willing individuals. Naomi, a Bible character in the Old Testament was a matchmaker for Lady Ruth and Sir Boaz. She was a widow and he was a wealthy landowner.
Yours truly has been co-opted into this matchmaking pool. And I’m glad to be of service to hese late bloomers. Will you be a matchmaker for the single folks around you? Will you be scouting for prospective candidates for your single cousins, nieces, nephews, sisters? Will you agree to be introduced by your aunties to prospective dates? Please join the conversation with your comments and feedback to mooborscounsellingroom@gmail.com.
By Mubo Okosun
Women’s Editor.
