A Nigerian man residing in Senegal has sparked online discussion with his unconventional marriage proposal, specifically seeking a wife who excels at cooking with firewood. The man emphasized that his mother exclusively consumes what he describes as "firewood food," highlighting a deep cultural preference for traditional cooking methods.
The Unusual Proposal and Its Cultural Context
The man initiated this request after encountering social media posts by a woman named Amaka, who shared photographs of herself cooking with firewood in a rural village setting. In his direct message to Amaka, he expressed his intentions clearly, stating, "Accept to marry me next month, I will send people to come to your family and do the needful. I will sit and wait for your response, my wife." This proposal underscores the importance he places on culinary skills aligned with his family's traditions.
Amaka's Witty Response and Cultural Nuances
Amaka responded with humor and cultural insight, sharing the exchange online. She wrote, "So, I made a post about me cooking with firewood, boom! Oga Senegal sent this to me: 'Dear, I know in Igbo land women marry women, and I understand you want to marry a wife for your mom. The best advice I will give you is to marry a 55-year-old woman for her, because I'm too young for such marriage.'" Her reply playfully references Igbo cultural practices while declining the offer, pointing out the generational mismatch in his request.
Broader Implications for Tradition and Modern Relationships
This incident sheds light on how traditional values, such as specific cooking methods, continue to influence personal choices like marriage in the Nigerian diaspora. The man's insistence on firewood cooking reflects a desire to preserve cultural heritage, particularly for his mother's dietary preferences. Meanwhile, Amaka's response highlights the evolving perspectives of younger generations who may prioritize different criteria in relationships.
The story, originally reported by Linda Ikeji on March 2, 2026, at 9:28 PM, has resonated widely, prompting discussions about the balance between tradition and modernity in contemporary Nigerian society. It serves as a reminder of how everyday actions, like sharing cooking photos online, can lead to unexpected and culturally rich interactions.
