How and when did you both meet?
Toyosi: Our first contact was on social media, Instagram to be precise. He played the role of Folarin on the Ndani TV series, Gidi Up and he did an amazing job with the role. I started following him and weeks (or maybe months) later, I sent him a message asking him to collaborate with me on a project. We moved the conversation to WhatsApp and started talking regularly there.
What qualities attracted you to each other?
Daniel: I liked how down-to-earth and vulnerable she was. She also had and still has an incredible sense of humour. She had a funny story for almost every scenario and was very witty. I also liked how confident and forthright she was. You were never in doubt about where you stood with her.
Toyosi: I liked that he was a fine boy (laughs), no jokes; stellar actor with a fine face and dimples. I was smitten; but then I got to know him better and realised how compassionate he was, how he put others first, how committed he was to his craft, and most importantly how he loved God. He had a beautiful relationship with God which he shared with me and I quickly told myself, ‘Toyosi, there’s nothing else you’re looking for. This is it.’
When did you marry?
Toyosi: We got married in November 2017.
What stood out for you on your wedding day?
Daniel: How present we both were. It wasn’t about the people or the event – how perfect or imperfect it was – it was about us and we were both present, body, soul, and spirit.
How have you been able to balance your family and career?
Toyosi: Thankfully, we are both in the media and entertainment industry so we understand what each person’s job entails. We are aware of our calendars and try to schedule as much time together as possible. We also have a good support system. Our kids’ caregivers are wonderful and we have family we can call upon to support whenever the need arises.
Daniel: Yes and the most important thing is that we are both committed to ensuring that our family structure never suffers because of our careers.
What lessons have you learnt from your marriage?
Daniel: Patience (laughs); I’ve learnt to be more patient and to hear what is being said, not what I think is being said.
Toyosi: I’ve learnt to compromise and understand that I cannot and shouldn’t have my way all the time.
What has been the best part of your marriage?
Toyosi: The best part is that we have each other and I’m sure that at least one person on this beautiful planet Earth has my best interest at heart.
Daniel: It’s the same for me, coupled with the reality that I have a beautiful, strong, and godly woman going through life with me.
Has marriage changed anything about you or deprived you of anything?
Daniel: Absolutely! For starters, my time and money are no longer just mine and I’m not complaining. I enjoy providing for my family. It gives me a deep sense of satisfaction and I’m thankful every time they come with a need and I’m able to meet it.
Toyosi: Yes, his money is our money!
You recently shared photos of your chat with your wife on social media years ago. Are you of the opinion that one can find love on social media as well?
Daniel: Absolutely! We found love on social media and to the glory of God, it’s working.
What is your advice to young people on marriage?
Daniel: It’s not all rosy. Don’t be fooled by the perfect pictures you see on Instagram. A lot of work goes into building a home.
Toyosi: It has to be all hands on deck. One person cannot be building while the other person is watching or even worse, tearing down. Both parties must be in ‘Build Mode’; foundation first and then one room after the other. Also, God has to be at the centre because “a three-strand cord is not easily broken.”