A Nigerian cleric, Pastor Bisi Adewale, has sparked conversations online after sharing his views on what he described as the most important responsibility of a husband in marriage.
Speaking in a viral video circulating on social media, the pastor argued that a man’s first duty in marriage is neither financial provision nor expressing love to his wife.
According to him, the foremost responsibility of a husband is to serve as the spiritual leader of the family.
Adewale explained that many men place more focus on providing for their households and showing affection to their wives while neglecting their relationship with God.
He said:
“The first duty of a man in marriage is not to provide. The first duty of a man in marriage is not to love his wife.”
The cleric stressed that a husband must first become “a priest of the family,” adding that genuine love for a spouse can only flow from a strong relationship with God.
He further warned that a man who loves his wife without first loving God may eventually become self-centred in marriage.
“If you love your wife without loving God, very soon you will be wicked to that woman because you won’t even know how to love her,” he stated.
According to him, love that is not rooted in spiritual values can become demanding, selfish and may eventually lead to emotional hurt within the relationship.
Referencing biblical teachings, Adewale encouraged married men and those preparing for marriage to prioritise their spiritual lives.
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and every other thing shall be added,” he said.
He concluded by describing marriage as one of the blessings that follows a life centred on God, adding:
“Marriage is other things added.”
The video has since generated reactions online, with many social media users sharing differing opinions on the pastor’s perspective about marriage and family leadership.
“The first duty of a husband is not to love his wife” – Pastor Bisi Adewale tells his congregation
— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) June 16, 2026
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