Love stories often carry their own unique twists. The journey of Chidi* (30) and Sewa* (27) is no exception. What began as a chance meeting during NYSC in Osogbo has grown into a relationship that has stood the test of time, culture, and distance. With their wedding set for December, the couple shares with JD how they’ve navigated family expectations, cultural differences, and the everyday joys of building a life together.
Let’s start from the beginning. How did you both meet?
Chidi: Well, I schooled in the east, Enugu state, to be precise. After university, NYSC posted me to Osogbo, Osun State. At first, I wasn’t excited. I thought, “How will an Igbo boy cope in a Yoruba town I’ve never even visited before?” But funny enough, that posting turned out to be one of the best things that happened to me.
I met Sewa there during one of our community development meetings (CDS). She wasn’t a corps member; she lived in Osogbo at the time and was one of the groups that came to give us talks at our CDS through her workplace. I remember walking into the hall and seeing her. When she gave her talk, she was very confident, and very focused.
Sewa: I honestly didn’t notice him at first. There were many corps members coming in and out, so I didn’t pay too much attention. But he introduced himself later when we were sorting out logistics. He was polite, reserved, and I thought, “This one looks like he’s not here for small talk.” But as we got talking, I realised he was not only serious-minded, but also very kind and thoughtful. That was what drew me in.
So, how did it go from there?
Chidi: Well, we kept seeing each other at the local government every now and then when people at her workplace came to give us talks about careers and to sell some courses. Afterwards, I always dropped by to say ‘hi’.
Sewa: Yes, he asked me out on a date after several drop-ins. And, we also used to chat regularly on Whatsapp during that period.
Chidi: When we chatted or talked physically, I remember I initially struggled with the Yoruba language. I would mix up words, and she found it very funny. She would patiently correct me, sometimes teasing me. That helped us bond more.
Sewa: Yes, and what struck me was how he adjusted so quickly. He didn’t act like, “I’m just here for one year, let me endure it.” He actually made an effort to learn about Yoruba culture, and even some expressions. That’s when I thought, this guy is different.
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When did you both realise this was going to be more than just friendship?
Sewa: It was maybe one month in. He had travelled back to Enugu to see his family, but he called me every single day from there. It wasn’t just the calls but the consistency and care. I realised then that this wasn’t casual for him.
Chidi: For me, it was when she became more interested in asking questions about me. My background and my experiences growing up in the East. I felt seen.
Being from different ethnic groups, did you face challenges when you started dating?
Chidi: Of course. The first challenge was my family perception. When I told my parents about her, my dad said, “So you went to Osun and got interested in a Yoruba girl?” They were sceptical at first because of stereotypes.
Sade: Same with my mum. She worried about cultural clashes. She would say things like, “Marriage is already not easy; don’t add tribal differences to it.” But I kept telling her, “It’s not about where he’s from, it’s about who he is.” With time, they saw how serious and respectful Chidi was. That softened them.
Chidi: It took patience. We didn’t argue with them, we just kept showing them love. Gradually, they came around.
Were there any moments where the cultural differences almost caused problems between you?
Sewa: Yes, food, first of all. He grew up with oha and bitterleaf soup, while I’m an amala-and-ewedu girl. At first, it was small jokes, but once it turned into an argument about whose food was “superior.” Looking back, it’s funny, but it felt serious at the time.
How long did your dating phase last?
Sewa: We dated for two years and three months.
That’s beautiful. So where are you both now in the relationship?
Chidi: We’re engaged. I proposed earlier this year.
Sewa: It was so sweet. He surprised me at a dinner with close friends. Even though we had talked about marriage, I wasn’t expecting it that night.
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Whooosh! Congratulations! When’s the wedding?
Sewa: Before the year ends. December by God’s grace.
Chidi: Yes, and we’re doing both the Yoruba engagement and the Igbo traditional rites. It’s not easy to plan, but we want both families represented. That’s important to us.
What do you think is unique about your relationship?
Sewa: For me, it’s how we’ve embraced each other’s backgrounds without losing ourselves. People assume inter-tribal relationships are an endless struggle, but for us, it’s been more about learning and unlearning.
Chidi: I agree. Love doesn’t erase differences, but it gives you courage to face them together. That’s what makes us stronger.
What advice would you give to couples who are considering inter-tribal relationships?
Sewa: Don’t let stereotypes or fear hold you back. If you love someone, stand together. Respect each other’s culture, and don’t mock it.
Chidi: Yes. Also, marriage is about the two of you first, before the families. If your foundation is strong, families will eventually come around.
What are you most excited about as you prepare for married life?
Sewa: Waking up next to him every day, not just seeing him on weekends. And building our own family, a blend of Yoruba and Igbo.
Chidi: I’m excited for the journey. I know there’ll be challenges, but I’m certain about the woman I’m walking into marriage with. That certainty gives me peace.
*Pseudonym.
