In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged in Kenya: an increasing number of Kenyan women are forming romantic relationships with Nigerian men. This phenomenon has sparked diverse reactions across the nation, ranging from admiration to concern. Notably, Deputy President William Ruto expressed his reservations when his daughter, June Ruto, married Nigerian scholar Dr. Alexander Ezenagu in 2021.
June Ruto’s Wedding: A Symbol of Changing Times
June Ruto’s marriage to Dr. Alexander Ezenagu was more than a personal milestone; it became a national talking point. The wedding, held at the Deputy President’s residence in Karen, Nairobi, was a private affair attended by close family and friends. However, the union of a prominent Kenyan figure with a Nigerian national stirred conversations about cultural identity and national pride.
Deputy President Ruto humorously expressed his mixed feelings during the ceremony, stating, “It is not easy as a parent to give away your daughter. It is much more difficult if you are giving away your daughter to Nigerians.” His remarks highlighted the emotional complexities parents face when their children choose partners from different cultural backgrounds.
Kenyan Men’s Reactions: A Mix of Humor and Heartache
The news of June Ruto’s marriage elicited a range of responses from Kenyan men, many of whom took to social media to express their feelings. Some reactions were lighthearted, with individuals joking about the allure of Nigerian men and their perceived romantic prowess. Others expressed genuine concern about the increasing number of Kenyan women choosing foreign partners
One Twitter user quipped, “The nubiles are being exported at a terrific rate!” Another lamented, “You mean there’s no single Kenyan who wooed June?” These comments reflect a broader sentiment among some Kenyan men who feel they are losing their compatriots to foreign suitors.
Cultural Exchange or Cultural Erosion?
The growing trend of Kenyan women marrying Nigerian men raises questions about cultural exchange and preservation. On one hand, such unions can be seen as a celebration of diversity and a testament to the interconnectedness of African nations. On the other hand, some individuals worry about the potential erosion of Kenyan cultural practices and values.
Critics argue that the increasing preference for foreign partners may indicate a lack of appreciation for local customs and traditions. They fear that as more Kenyan women marry outside their culture, there may be a gradual decline in the transmission of indigenous practices to future generations.
The Nigerian Appeal: What Draws Kenyan Women?
Several factors contribute to the appeal of Nigerian men to Kenyan women. Cultural similarities, shared values, and the prominence of Nigerian media in Kenya have played significant roles. Nigerian music, films, and literature have found a substantial audience in Kenya, fostering a sense of familiarity and admiration.
Moreover, Nigerian men are often perceived as confident, ambitious, and expressive in their affections—traits that some Kenyan women find attractive. The economic success stories of Nigerians in various sectors also add to their allure.

The increasing number of Kenyan women marrying Nigerian men is a reflection of the evolving dynamics of love and relationships in a globalized world. While such unions may challenge traditional norms, they also offer opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual growth.
Deputy President Ruto’s comments, though tinged with humor and personal sentiment, underscore the broader societal conversations about identity, tradition, and the nature of love in contemporary Africa. As Kenyan society continues to navigate these changes, it becomes essential to foster understanding, respect, and open dialogue about the choices individuals make in their personal lives.