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As a man, you have to provide – Ladipoe on ‘billing culture’ in relationships
Popular Nigerian rapper, Ladipoe has shared his perspective on financial expectations in relationships, stating that men often feel a natural obligation to provide.
Speaking on The Midday Show, the artist addressed the widely discussed “billing culture,” where men are expected to bear most financial responsibilities in relationships. However, he expressed skepticism about some of the viral narratives online regarding unreasonable financial demands from women.
“I really wonder if people are telling the truth with the stories they say online because if you’re with a reasonable person, it usually works itself out. If I invite you to dinner, I’m paying. I don’t understand why there’s even a conversation about it. I feel like I don’t believe people’s stories, I don’t think that they’re true,” he stated.
Ladipoe further explained that while men naturally feel inclined to provide, he is unsure whether this expectation is entirely positive or negative.
“As a guy, there’s this energy that you need to provide. I don’t know if that’s a positive thing or not. A man needs to realise that there’s more beyond just being able to provide, but it’s an important characteristic or criteria in a relationship.”
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However, he also acknowledged the importance of reciprocity in relationships, revealing that his current partner makes efforts to give to him as well, which strengthens his desire to provide for her in return.
“Except for my mum or an aunty or family, no woman has ever sent me money. There was this one time when my big cousin sent me 60 dollars, I was in college at the time. That’s the one time I can probably remember, asides my mum, no girl.
That’s why I’m with the person I’m with, she gives me things ‘just because.’ She pours into me as well, and that’s what drives me to say I want to provide for this person, but nobody wants to be taken advantage of.”
Ladipoe’s comments have sparked discussions on social media about the balance of financial responsibilities in relationships and the evolving expectations of both men and women.