[Couple Spotlight] ‘We contemplated calling it quits many times,’ The Adekunbis share secrets to their 20-year-old blissful union

Rt. Hon. Suraj Adekunbi met his beautiful wife some 22 years ago. For him, it was a case of love at sight. Despite being at the location for a different reason on that fateful day, Hon. Suraj knew convinced himself that there was nothing bad pursuing two goals at a time and he eventually did. 

Mrs Oluwaseun Adekunbi’s demure coolness and calmness did the magic on his would-be husband on their first unofficial meeting day. Hon Adekunbi was so convinced at first sight that he was meeting his wife that he even thought of ‘snatching’ her from her husband if she was already married then! But thank goodness, Mrs Adekunbi was not only single but available to mingle therefore making Hon Adekunbi’s job much more easier.

They seal the ‘deal’ the following day and had a solid two-year dating relationship before taking it a step further in 2005. It’s been 20 years of goodness for these lovebirds.

However, to claim it’s been all rosy would mean telling blatant lies. They’ve had their challenges and even contemplated calling it quits at different times but the love binding them together is bigger than the challenges, hence after 20 years they are still standing strong and still genuinely in love with each other as it was when they first met 22 years ago.

Let me walk you through these two decades of love, loyalty sincerity and faithfulness using the Adekunbis template.

 

1. Can we meet you and your lovely family?

Both: We are Rt. Hon. Suraj (FNNC, MPDI, FIM, FCICN, NBA) and Mrs. Oluwaseun Adekunbi.

 

2. Can you recollect how this beautiful love journey started?

Mrs Adekunbi: It all started 22 years ago and we’ve been married for 20 years by God’s grace.

Hon Adekunbi: There was this particular morning that I needed to see one of my younger sisters, I was processing her higher institution admission for her. Getting there that particular morning around to 7, I saw this lady stepping out of a compound to join a car in front of the house. Immediately I sighted her, I said to myself, who could this person be? I then met with my sister, shortly after I left to join the car she was in. Series of questions were going through my mind as i saw some children in the car as well…Could she be a teacher? Is she married? What is very special about her is how she was cool and calm. The next day, I went back there again in the evening, saw her seated at a corner, immediately my mind told me “This lady is your wife ” what if she is married was the next question that came to my mind and I said to myself then I’ll take her from her husband (laughs).

I then linked up with her and we got talking. After 2 years of courtship, we had our engagement where we met with our families. We had our introduction on the 9th of April 2005, and our wedding, 10th of September, 2005. To the glory of God we had our 20th anniversary this year September 10th. I pray to almighty Allah to continually strengthen us , strengthen our union and make us the best model of what a good marriage should be.

 

3. This union recently clocked 20 years. That is a huge milestone considering the usual trivialities that tear marriages apart these days. How were you able to steer the ship all along from hitting rock bottom?

Mrs Adekunbi: Marriage is an institution ordained by God. We are called to nurture and respect it. Like every couple, we’ve had our ups and downs, but with perseverance, resilience, and God’s grace, we held on and came out stronger.

 

4. What has been your secret to keeping the spark alive all these years?

Mrs Adekunbi: Perseverance and resilience. A marriage cannot thrive without sacrifice. Above all, prayer and open communication have been our backbone.

 

5. How do you both make each other feel special, even in small ways? What fun habits have stayed with you through this marital journey so far?

Both: Every day feels special to us.

 

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

Mrs Adekunbi: In the early years, it was a bit rough as we were still learning and adjusting to each other. Now, whenever issues arise, we communicate openly and resolve them. Importantly, saying “I am sorry” always works wonders.

 

7. What’s that one thing you both do to melt each other’s hearts?

Both: A sincere “I am sorry”.

 

8. What are some of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome them?

Both: We’ve faced many challenges, but by His grace, we overcame them victoriously.

 

9. Did you or your partner at any time attempt to call it quits?

Both: (Smiles…) Yes, so many times.

 

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

To the wife: Make your home a place of peace for your husband and respect him.

To the husband: Cherish, adore, and give your wife optimum attention.

 

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

Both: GRATITUDE.