A Nigerian doctor, Ada Ujaligwa, has ignited widespread conversations on social media with her advice to couples about the financial responsibilities of childbirth. She recommended that married men whose wives are expecting should have a minimum of N5 million in their savings, while women planning to conceive should set aside at least N1 million.
In a post that has since gone viral, Dr. Ujaligwa stressed the importance of financial preparedness before pregnancy. She urged women not to rely solely on their husbands for the costs associated with childbirth, particularly in situations where a caesarean section (CS) might be required.
According to her, "As a married woman who wants to get pregnant, ensure that you have at least N1 million in your savings account that remains untouched. As a married man whose wife is expecting, you should have nothing less than N5 million in your savings in preparation for delivery."
She further challenged the culture of financial dependence in marriages, highlighting the risks women face when they do not have personal savings for emergencies. "How can you be so financially dependent on your husband that if he refuses to pay for your caesarean section, you will be stranded? Why should you leave yourself at his mercy? Before you even get pregnant, secure the money for any type of delivery—gidigbam (firmly and without compromise).”
Her remarks have sparked a wave of reactions online. While some social media users agree on the necessity of financial planning before childbirth, others argue that the recommended savings amounts are unrealistic for many Nigerians, considering the country’s economic situation.
Many individuals have taken to the comment sections of various platforms to express their views. Some shared personal experiences of unexpected medical expenses during childbirth, supporting her advice, while others criticized the suggestion as impractical, stating that most average-income earners cannot afford to save such large amounts.
This debate continues as people weigh in on whether childbirth should come with such a hefty financial requirement and how realistic it is for the average couple in Nigeria.
