My Father Had 39 Wives and I Enjoyed with 147 Children – Adenubi Olagbegi-Apampa
Princess Adenubi Olagbegi-Apampa, a Nigerian woman based in the United States, recently expressed her pride in being part of a large polygamous family.
While speaking to journalists during the dedication and commissioning of the multi-million naira Princess Nubi Plaza Seliat Hall in Lagelu Estate, Ibadan, she described her upbringing as fulfilling and joyful, despite the complexities often associated with large families.
Olagbegi-Apampa revealed that her father had 39 wives and 147 children, yet she emphasized that growing up in such a large household was a positive experience.
She said, “You know how important my father was. He had 39 wives and 147 children. We blend and eat together. We do everything together.”
She went on to describe how their family bond remains strong, even across borders.
She mentioned that in New Jersey, where she currently resides, one of her brothers contributed to a drawing for her and another brother, who is an engineer, supervised the construction of her home.
Refuting common misconceptions that families of such size are often chaotic or dysfunctional, she shared that the children in her family grew up with strong connections and camaraderie.
According to her, the sheer size of the family did not lead to division or conflict, but rather fostered unity and mutual support.
She proudly stated, “If I have the chance to come over again, I will still come from where I came from.”
Passionate about national development, she urged Nigerians abroad not to allow the current state of insecurity to deter them from contributing to their country’s growth.
Rather than staying away, she encouraged them to return and take part in rebuilding and uplifting Nigeria.
Her message was clear: challenges are global, but commitment to one’s roots and homeland should remain strong.
Princess Olagbegi-Apampa presented a deeply personal yet inspiring narrative, one that celebrates family, resilience, and national pride, while also challenging prevailing stereotypes about polygamy and life in Nigeria.
Tolu Adebayo
Reporter/Social Media Manager