Reality Star and food entrepreneur, Hazel Oyeze Onou, widely known as Whitemoney, has opened up about the persistent challenges he faces in his personal life, attributing his single status to the current nature of Nigeria’s dating culture. The Enugu-born entertainer, who rose to prominence for his charismatic personality and culinary skills, has said that finding a life partner who aligns with his values has become increasingly difficult.
In a recent social media post, Whitemoney expressed frustration over difficulty in getting a wife.
He said, “I can’t even lie, I’m getting old. But the dating culture in Nigeria is something else. I need a wife. Where do they find good women?.”
He further pointed to a perceived trend of transactional relationships, particularly within Lagos, noting that many prospective partners prioritize financial gain over genuine connection.
“A lot of Nigerian girls now, any small thing, billing, especially in Lagos. They don’t care to ask what ‘can we build’? It’s difficult to find the right woman nowadays.” He stated
Whitemoney’s journey into the limelight began in 2021 when he entered the sixth season of the reality television show, Big Brother Naija. During his time in the house, he became a household name largely due to his role as the resident chef.
His constant presence in the kitchen, preparing meals for his fellow housemates, earned him widespread admiration from viewers who saw his actions as a display of humility and care.
However, his strategy was not without controversy. While many fans championed his kitchen politics as authentic, critics often argued that his focus on cooking was a calculated strategy designed to endear him to both housemates and the voting public, ultimately securing his path to victory. Despite the mixed reactions, his relatable demeanor and hustler spirit resonated deeply, leading to his eventual triumph as the winner of the season.
Following his win, Whitemoney sought to leverage his newfound fame to venture into the Nigerian music industry. He released several tracks, hoping to solidify his status as a multi-talented entertainer. However, this transition was met with public backlash. Many listeners and social media users were critical of his musical output, often comparing his songs unfavorably to his celebrated cooking skills.
Many fans suggested that his talents were better suited to the kitchen than the recording studio. These critics frequently advised him to abandon his musical ambitions and focus on culinary ventures.
Whitemoney returned to the screen for the Big Brother Naija: All Stars edition. His participation was seen by many as an attempt to reconnect with the audience that originally propelled him to fame.
Throughout his rise, Whitemoney has often spoken about his humble background. Raised in a modest family, he has drawn on experiences ranging from various small-scale businesses to the struggles of daily survival, which have been central to his public persona.
