[Couple Spotlight] ‘Two imperfect people building a beautiful forever,’ how the Adebolas braced sudden job loss, delayed childbearing, others for love
Challenges sometimes are not designed to break us but to test our faith in God, love amd loyalty towards each other especially for married couples.
I know we have read and heard lots of fairytale wedding/marriage experiences but whoever told us that’s all to it is only being deceptive. Love and marriage entails more than the Nollywood, Bollywood and Hollywood fantasies that was constantly flashed to our faces and imaginations from television and cinema screens.
The Adebolas experience is a perfect example of things that happen in our marital journey that we never planned for. While they in itself is beyond our powers, however, how mature, gracefully and emotionally balanced we react to these unplanned/unscripted life happenstances is what matters and forms a bedrock for the sustainability of whatever we share as lovers.
The Adebolas, though unprepared for what their together journey threw at them but responded rather like they had it all planned out and that was what made that phase of their lives passed by quickly with lessons learnt but no strain to their relationship. From sudden job loss to the emotional draining waiting time for the gift of marriage, this couple braced up like champions and the result is the undying love and loyalty still dotting their union today after a solid 11 years together as couple and 14 years as friends.
Please read, digest and learn from the experiences of this wonder couple.
1. Can you take us back to how your love story started?
Mr Adebola: We met during a church outreach programme in a rural part of Ogun State. I was part of the medical team, while she coordinated food and welfare. I noticed how calm and organized she was, even under pressure. At the end of the programme, I asked for her number, not even sure where it would lead.
Mrs Adebola: I almost didn’t give him my number because I was tired and dusty that day. But something about his humility stood out. We started with casual messages, checking on each other, and sharing testimonies. Friendship slowly turned into something deeper, and before we knew it, love had taken root.
2. What was the moment you knew “this is the one”?
Mr Adebola: When I lost my job suddenly, she stood firmly beside me. No pressure, no complaints — just encouragement, prayer, and belief. That season showed me her true heart.
Mrs Adebola: When he met my family and handled everything with respect, patience, and wisdom. I saw how seriously he took responsibility, and I knew I was safe with him.
3. How many years have you been together?
Mr Adebola: We have been together for 14 years.
Mrs Adebola: And married for 11 wonderful years.
4. What has been your secret to keeping the spark alive all these years, especially after the arrival of kids?
Mr Adebola: We intentionally create time for each other, even if it’s just 20 minutes at night to talk and laugh. We also never stop dating each other, no matter how busy life becomes.
Mrs Adebola: We remind ourselves daily that we are partners, not just parents. Small compliments, little surprises, shared prayers, and emotional openness keep the fire burning.
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 Adebola: I still call her the pet names I gave her when we were dating. I also leave small handwritten notes sometimes, just to brighten her day.
Mrs Adebola: I still dress up for him, even inside the house. We also gist a lot and laugh over old memories. Every night, we say one thing we appreciate about each other — that habit has kept us deeply connected.
6. How do you handle disagreements or tough moments now, compared to your early years?
Mr Adebola: In our early years, we reacted emotionally. Now, we respond thoughtfully. We listen more, talk calmly, and always aim for peace.
Mrs Adebola: We’ve learned that silence, patience, and timing can solve many problems. We don’t rush to argue anymore — we seek understanding.
7. What’s one thing your partner still does that melts your heart?
Mr Adebola: Her loyalty and gentle care. No matter how tired she is, she always makes sure the family is okay.
Mrs Adebola: When he holds my hands during prayer. It still melts my heart after all these years.
8. What was one of the biggest challenges you faced together, and how did you overcome it?
Mr Adebola: We struggled with delayed childbearing early in our marriage. It was emotionally draining.
Mrs Adebola: But we stayed strong in faith, encouraged each other, and refused to let pressure destroy our joy. God answered us in His own perfect time.
9. What advice would you give to younger couples hoping for a lasting marriage?
Mr Adebola: Choose commitment over convenience. Marriage is built daily through patience, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
Mrs Adebola: Pray together, talk honestly, and never stop being friends.
10. If you could sum up your marriage in one word or sentence, what would it be?
Mr Adebola: A journey of growth and grace.
Mrs Adebola: Two imperfect people building a beautiful forever.