LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nollywood actor Deyemi Okanlawon has opened up about masculinity, explaining why men are naturally wired to protect others while stressing that seeking emotional support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Speaking during a recent interview on the CreativiTea podcast, the actor explained that men are naturally built to endure difficult situations and instinctively protect those around them, even when doing so puts them at risk.
He revealed that his first reaction in any worrying or dangerous situation would be to shield others rather than think about himself.
“My job is to protect the people around me. If gbegbe happens here now, the chances are I’m going to step in front. It’s what needs to happen; there’s no excuse,” Okanlawon said.
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Although he believes men are conditioned to “chest” life’s challenges, Okanlawon insisted that they should never be discouraged from addressing their emotional struggles or seeking help when necessary.
Reflecting on his personal experience, the actor revealed that he has intentionally built a strong support system over the years.
He disclosed that his first point of contact during difficult moments is usually his therapist or mentor, both of whom he keeps on speed dial.
However, he admitted that when life becomes especially overwhelming, he leans on his wife for support.
“Let me just tell you the truth, when the thing is just too hard, there’s my wife. She’s not the first because she’s dealing with her own business and raising the family. But when it’s hitting me too hard, I’ll wake her in the middle of the night and tell her to help me,” the actor stated.
Deyemi Okanlawon married his wife in 2013 after they met while he studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Lagos. The couple have since built a family together and are parents to three sons.
