Sanusi, you owe no one no explanation.18 is old enough to take a decision. Besides, if 18 year old can have a boy friend what then is wrong in marrying her off after all the difference between you friend/girl friend relationship and marriage is that one is approved while the other is hidden. The couple practically do everything together. By the way why the fuss? Our parents of old married even at 12 even when they are Christians and not from the Hausa or Muslim tribe. I will give my consent if my daughter want to marry at 18. Congrats Sanusi. You owe nobody all these long explanation. Live your life to the fullest and may God bless your marriage
Yes our parents married at very tender age, but this is a modern civilization which both should understand themselves before proceeding for proper marriage.