8 Things You Should Never Say To A working Mother In Nigeria

Lets be honest with ourselves, life is tough as a working mother in Nigeria.

While some Nigerian mothers are lucky enough to have husbands who can provide for them and for their children, some women don't have that luxury.

Harsh economic realities coupled with the high unemployment rate, makes it nearly impossible for most women to leave their jobs or careers to stay home with the children, if only temporarily.

This often means dropping of a 3-month-old baby at a daycare or creche while the mother goes to earn a living.

Working mothers in Nigeria feel the guilt, the guilt of leaving home before the children are awake and getting home after they are fast asleep. The guilt of not being able to attend open day or PTA at your child's school. The guilt of not knowing that your child's clothes are torn or too tight because he or she has grown up so fast. The guilt of just not being there to watch your child grow up.

Yes, the typical Nigerian working mum feels the guilt. So the last thing such a mother would want, is you telling her any of the following things.

1. "I could never let someone else raise my kids."

You really don't need to rub it in. Life as a working mum is tough enough as it is. If you cannot help, keep your comments to yourself.

2. "I suppose it's smart that you're working. You know, in case your husband leaves you some day."

Hello? When did you become an expert in relationships. While it is important for a woman to have her own independence, thinking about one's husband leaving them is not the reason why women build careers.

3."It's cute when they call your house help "Mama."

Thank you for pointing that out. Like I do not feel bad already. I would admit that I am happy to see that my children like the house help. Now can you mind your business.

4."Do you really have to work?"

Ehm... Yes I do. My father is not Dangote and the last time I checked my surname does not end with Adenuga. So yes I have to work, to not only buy nice clothes and shoes for myself, but also to be able to provide for my children.

5. "Did you hear about that study on children of working moms?"

Yes. But do you know that there are pros and cons to everything in life. Respect my choice please.

6. "You are a bad mother. Why have kids if someone else is going to take care of them?"

Ouch. Just because I am at work does not mean I am not “there” for my kids. Many mothers all over Nigerian, go to work everyday. I would not be the first, nor the last. Please get some perspective.

7. "You have another school event? Didn't you just leave early last week?"

Everyone benefits from children who are cared for. You didn't notice when I stayed till 10 p.m. last night, while I love my job, my child is more important to me.

8. "Women should be at home with their children."

Haha, you are too funny. What century are we living in? You mean I have all these degrees to sit home and play housewife? Women have their own dreams and have a right to accomplish things for themselves.

These questions are just some of the many that Nigerian working mothers are asked. It is very easy to judge when you do not walk in the same shoes as another person.

The truth is that most mothers, adore their children and want what’s best for them. So, let’s give Nigerian working mothers support and understanding.

Tell us, what are some of the things you should never say to a Nigerian working mother?