[Couple Spotlight] ‘He stood by me like rock during mourning…she revised with me during exams,’ how the Adeniyis knew they were meant for each other

It all started from the four walls of the university. These lovebirds were members of same drama group. Aside from regular attendance, both were committed members of the group who soon took interest in each other’s distinct personalities.  

Both were good and consistent at what they do for each other. For three years, they studied and perfected their love languages leaving no room for assumptions. From being served favourite meals to being there for each other at difficult times, the Adeniyi’s bond gently blossomed into a love like no other and they soon exchanged marital vows to live the rest of their lives together.

It’s been 15 solid years and looking back, both have had no regret whatsoever pursing their love interests when they did on campus.

Both were excited to let me into this special chapter of their lives that they so much cherish. Please read their responses to my questions below:

 

1. Can you take us back to how your love story started?

Mr. Adeniyi: Ours started back in university. We were both part of the same drama group. I noticed her because she always came early to rehearsals …very disciplined and focused. I thought, “Hmm, this one is different.

 

Mrs. Adeniyi: I noticed him because he was the loudest during rehearsals. He had this confidence and humor that drew people in. We started talking more after rehearsals, and before long, friendship turned into something deeper.

 

2. What was the moment you knew “this is the one”?

Mrs. Adeniyi: When I lost my mum he stood by me like a rock. From cooking, to running errands and checking on my siblings, he did it all. I realized then that his love was not about words but action.

 

Mr. Adeniyi: For me, it was during our final exams. She literally stayed up all night helping me revise for a paper I was struggling with. I thought, “A woman who invests in your future like this? She’s the one.”

 

3. How many years have you been together?

Both: 15 years married, 18 years together.

 

4. What has been your secret to keeping the spark alive all these years, especially after the arrival of kids?

Mrs. Adeniyi: We intentionally guard our couple time. Sometimes it’s as simple as walking around the estate together after dinner.

 

Mr. Adeniyi: We never stopped being playful. Even with the kids around, we tease each other, dance in the kitchen, or crack inside jokes. Those little things add up.

 

5. How do you both make each other feel special, even in small ways? What fun habits have stayed with you throughout your marriage?

Mr. Adeniyi: She still makes me my favorite jollof rice on Sundays without me asking. That’s her love language.

 

Mrs. Adeniyi : I love surprising him with small gifts — a new tie, his favorite chin-chin, or even airtime. It’s my way of saying, “I see you.”

 

6. How do you handle disagreements or tough moments now, compared to your early years?

Mrs. Adeniyi: In our early years, I would bottle things up and keep malice. Now I’ve learned that silence doesn’t solve problems.

 

Mr. Adeniyi: Yes, now we talk more openly. We remind ourselves: we are not enemies; the problem is the enemy. That mindset changed everything.

 

7. What’s one thing your partner still does that melts your heart?

Mr. Adeniyi: She still sends me random text messages during the day — sometimes funny, sometimes romantic. Even in the middle of work, it makes me smile like a teenager.

 

Mrs. Adeniyi: He still holds my hand in public. It makes me feel like his girlfriend again.

 

8. What was one of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome it?

Mrs. Adeniyi: Relocating to a new city after marriage. We didn’t know anyone, and it was lonely at first. But it forced us to rely on each other more and build our own circle together.

 

Mr. Adeniyi: That season bonded us deeply. We realized that “home” is not a place, it’s the two of us.

 

9. What advice would you give to younger couples hoping for a lasting marriage?

Mr. Adeniyi: Don’t rush to give up when things get tough. The sweet part of marriage often comes after the hard seasons.

 

Mrs. Adeniyi: Nver stop learning about your spouse. The person you married at 25 is not the same at 40. Keep discovering each other.

 

10. If you could sum up your marriage in one word or sentence, what would it be?

Both: “Two imperfect people held together by love and God’s grace.”