Prioritise Values over Money in Relationships – Counsellor Urges Youth

Counsellor Frank Edem Adofoli has advised young people to focus on personal growth, core values and emotional maturity before entering romantic relationships, cautioning against reducing love to material gain.

Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed FM, Mr. Adofoli made a passionate appeal to students and young adults to approach relationships with wisdom and self-awareness, stressing that education and self-development must take priority during one’s formative years.

“I’ll plead with the youth, especially those in school. They should do what students do, learn,” he said.

According to him, many young people rush into relationships without understanding their purpose or readiness.

He encouraged them to start relationships at the right time and for the right reasons, rather than out of pressure or material expectations.

Mr. Adofoli urged young people to assess potential partners based on character rather than financial standing.

“It shouldn’t be about how much you earn or what you can give me. Let’s look at the values in people. Whether they are honest, God-fearing, hardworking,” he noted.

He challenged couples to consider whether their bond could withstand financial hardship.

The counsellor also noted that not every romantic relationship is destined for marriage, urging maturity when things do not work out.

“Not every relationship will lead to marriage. At one point in time, it may not work, and you will have to let go. We don’t need to punish each other,” he said.

Instead of resentment, he encouraged reflection on the positive aspects of past relationships and the lessons they offer.

Mr. Adofoli highlighted communication as the foundation of healthy relationships.

He advised couples to openly share their thoughts, feelings and dreams while also learning to listen attentively to each other.

He further cautioned against verbal abuse during disagreements, noting that arguments and conflicts do not justify hurtful words.

“The fact that we have arguments doesn’t mean we can say anything to each other and then come back and say we’re still in a relationship. Learn to respect each other,” he explained.

On the issue of fidelity, Mr. Adofoli stressed the importance of clear boundaries. He warned against entertaining a new romantic interest while still in a struggling relationship.

“If the relationship is not working, let’s bring it to an end before we move on to another one,” he advised.