Jemima Osunde has shared her thoughts on Nigeria’s international passport fee hike and the dilemma of single women who may have to change their last names after marriage.
In some posts on X, she expressed her regret for not ensuring her passport was valid for ten years the last time she renewed it. Now, she would have to pay the increased fee.
She explained that as an unmarried woman, she wanted to avoid the hassle of changing her name on the passport, so she went for the 5-year validity instead.
“Me that I should’ve done 10 years’ passport. I was doing what if I marry?, she asked
This tweet sparked a lot of reactions and questions. Many asked why a woman would go through that rigorous process of childbirth and yet still bear the husband’s name. Whether or not to take a husband’s name after marriage is a deeply personal choice that various factors can influence.
While it’s a decision ultimately based on individual preferences and values, there are several reasons why some women might choose to adopt their husband’s surname. Here’s an in-depth look at why this tradition persists and how it can be meaningful for many couples.
Cultural Tradition
In many cultures around the world, taking a husband’s surname is a well-established tradition. This practice has been followed for centuries and can symbolize the continuation of cultural and familial norms. For those who value cultural heritage and tradition, adopting their husband’s surname can be a way to honour and maintain these longstanding customs.
Family Unity
One of the reasons some women choose to take their husband’s name is to promote a sense of unity and cohesiveness within the family. Sharing a surname can help create a strong family identity and symbolize the merging of two lives into one. It can also simplify family dynamics, especially when it comes to raising children, who will share the same surname as both parents.
Social Acceptance
In many societies, having the same surname as one’s spouse can facilitate smoother social interactions. It can align with societal expectations and norms, reducing potential confusion or questions about marital status. This alignment with societal norms can make navigating social situations more straightforward and less complicated.
Legal Simplicity
Having the same surname as one’s spouse can simplify legal and administrative matters. For example, it can make managing joint accounts, property ownership, and other legal documents more straightforward. It can also be beneficial in situations involving parental responsibilities, such as school registrations or medical decisions, where a shared surname might streamline the process.
Symbolic Gesture
Adopting a husband’s surname can be seen as a symbolic gesture of commitment and partnership. It can represent the merging of two lives and the commitment to a shared future. For some, this symbolic act is an important part of their marital journey and expresses their dedication to their relationship.
Family Identity
Sharing a surname can help establish a unified family identity, especially in contexts where children are involved. It can be meaningful for children to have the same surname as both parents, reinforcing a sense of belonging and family unity. This shared identity can be significant in fostering a sense of togetherness and stability.
Professional Integration
In some cases, women might choose to adopt their husband’s surname for professional reasons. For instance, if the couple’s last names are the same, it can avoid confusion in professional and personal settings. This consistency can be practical, especially if the woman’s maiden name is complex or less common.
Religious or Cultural Beliefs
Certain religious or cultural beliefs may encourage or require that a woman take her husband’s surname. This practice can be rooted in religious teachings or cultural customs that view the adoption of the husband’s name as a sign of respect and adherence to traditional values.
Avoiding Confusion
Having the same surname as one’s spouse can reduce potential confusion, particularly in situations involving legal documents, travel, or family matters. A shared surname can help avoid misunderstandings or administrative complications that might arise from having different last names.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision to take a husband’s name can come down to personal preference. Some women feel that adopting their husband’s surname aligns with their values and vision for their marital identity. It may simply be a choice that feels right for them and their relationship.
The decision for a woman to take her husband’s name is multifaceted and deeply personal. While it may seem like a traditional practice, it carries various meanings and implications that can be great for many couples.
There are numerous reasons why adopting a husband’s surname can be a meaningful choice. It’s essential to consider these factors and make a decision that best aligns with one’s values, beliefs, and the nature of the relationship.
