Media personality Toke Makinwa has advised singles to consider financial compatibility when choosing partners, arguing that dating within one’s economic class can reduce pressure and unrealistic expectations in relationships.
Makinwa made the remarks during a recent episode of the MENtality Podcast hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.
Excerpts from the conversation gained widespread attention on Friday, July 3, 2026, and sparked debate across social media.
According to Makinwa, many relationship challenges stem from financial imbalance, with some people pursuing lifestyles they cannot sustain.
“I am a big believer of date within your age and within your class.”
“That way there will not be stories that touch.”
“You will have a good girl at home, a girl who will even make dinner with her own money when you don’t have.”
“Yet, some men will still want to cheat on her with a woman they can’t afford.”
She also spoke about the fears some women have about supporting men before they become financially successful, saying changes in behaviour often emerge after wealth is acquired.
“Heaven forbid you end up with a guy who hasn’t blown.”
“The day he blows, that is when you will know his true personality.”
“And that scares women.”
Makinwa argued that wealth does not fundamentally change a person’s character but instead exposes traits that may have been hidden.
“Money doesn’t change people, it just reveals who the person is.”
“So many men are treating women who sacrificed everything for them badly.”
Speaking further on relationships, she maintained that exchanges of value have always been part of romantic partnerships, although modern society has amplified such expectations.
“From time immemorial, a relationship between a man and a woman has always been transactional.”
The comments generated mixed reactions online, with some social media users agreeing that financial compatibility plays an important role in healthy relationships, while others argued that love and commitment should not be determined by income levels.