Father’s Day : Insecurity, lack of appreciation toll on Nigerian fathers

Some fathers in Nigeria have lamented that national insecurity and a lack of societal appreciation are taking a severe physical and emotional toll on men striving to provide for their households.

The fathers, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews on the occasion of Father’s Day, expressed hopes for greater support from both the government and their families to cushion the intensifying burdens of modern fatherhood.

A father of three, Mr Shayo Bamisetemi, urged the government to create a more habitable environment for citizens, noting that the current insecurity situation should be urgently addressed rather than being politicised.

“As a dedicated father striving to provide a fulfilling life for my family, I urge the Nigerian government to create a more habitable environment for our loved ones.

“The current security issues are overwhelming, and our children deserve a safe atmosphere as they pursue their education,” Bamisetemi said.

Regarding his expectations of his family, Bamisetemi stated that a father’s desire for appreciation and respect for his daily contributions was fundamental, adding that “gratitude is a catalyst for doing even more.”

Also, Mr Bright Chigozie, a Factory Supervisor in Apapa who spends long hours away from home due to the nature of his job, said safety remained a major source of anxiety for many parents.

He noted that every father dreamt of seeing his children grow up in a secure environment where they could pursue their education and aspirations without fear.

Chigozie added that many fathers worked tirelessly to meet family needs, often enduring severe physical and emotional stress in the process without getting enough commendation.

“Beyond government intervention, appreciation and support from family members are equally important.

“Words of encouragement, respect, and recognition from spouses and children go a long way in boosting a father’s morale,” Chigozie said.

Speaking in the same vein, Mr Julius Adeyemi, an Accountant, argued that fathers did not receive enough accolades despite their heavy sacrifices and contributions toward the upkeep of their homes.

He stated that society had remained biased against men, failing to give them the same recognition accorded to their female counterparts.

“My work keeps me away from home most nights, and this is having a toll on my health,” Adeyemi lamented.

Corroborating this view, Mr Moses Akintokun, a Chartered Accountant, urged the government to commit more toward the economic prosperity of the nation to cushion the predominant financial stress among fathers.

“Men are really going through different kinds of stress—mental, financial, etc., but only very few talk about it.

“We are in a world where fathers get little or no appreciation for their fatherly roles due to the fact that they are not as visible and available compared to women in the upbringing of the children,” Akintokun said.

Akintokun added that, notwithstanding the lack of accolades, his ultimate desire remained to see his children succeed, make him proud, and positively impact society.

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