Catherine Egwuom, Lilian Okoro and Kemi Akintokun
As families across Nigeria celebrate Father’s Day, many fathers in Nigeria are reflecting on the sacrifices they make daily to provide for their loved ones amidst prevailing economic challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) is reporting that it is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, matching the global observance.
The day honours fathers, stepfathers, and father figures for their sacrifices, leadership, and provision within the home and the broader Nigerian society.
The fathers are usually appreciated through special thanksgiving services, giving thoughtful gifts, having treats, and special meals/celebrations among other ways.
Nevertheless, many Nigerian men are decrying systemic gender bias and calling for greater appreciation, support, and understanding from their families and the government.
This shifting dynamic vividly recalls the iconic comedy film: “Omugwo,” where veteran actor, Nkem Owoh (Osuofia), humorously but deeply challenged conventional African definitions of paternal involvement.
In the movie released in 2002, Owoh plays a grandfather who humorously breaks traditional cultural boundaries to help care for his newborn grandchild.
His character steps into domestic roles usually reserved for women, handling chores and baby care while challenging long-held African stereotypes about rigid paternal responsibilities.
His character breaks cultural boundaries by entering spaces traditionally reserved for women, symbolising a broader conversation about what modern Nigerian fatherhood truly requires from men today.
Owoh’s witty performance highlights the evolving expectations of modern Nigerian men, proving that fatherly love requires active, hands-on emotional and physical presence, even as fathers yearn for same care, attention, love and general support.
Speaking with various fathers nationwide on Sunday reveals that balancing emotional presence with the heavy burden of financial provision remains the ultimate test of contemporary parenting.
From bustling Lagos, to Aba and Onitsha markets to corporate Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Lagos offices, these men are rewriting the old patriarchal script, proving that active fatherhood transcends mere monetary support.
Additionally, many fathers express deep frustration over the relentless economic pressures, noting that hyperinflation and soaring commodity prices have made maintaining the provider role an exhausting daily battle.
They believe society harshly judges their worth solely by their financial capacity, leaving little room for vulnerability when businesses fail or jobs are suddenly lost.
Furthermore, several men pointed out that while conversations around women’s empowerment have advanced, support systems for men’s mental health and emotional well-being remain virtually nonexistent.
Consequently, they feel increasingly isolated and unappreciated, perceiving that their silent sacrifices for family survival are largely taken for granted by both the public and immediate relatives.
Shayo Bamisetemi, a father of three, urged the government to create a more habitable environment for citizens rather than politicising the current insecurity situation.
Bamisetemi said: “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.”
On his expectations from his family, Bamisetemi said fathers’ desire for appreciation and respect is fundamental, adding: “Gratitude is a catalyst for doing even more.
“My wife’s prayers in response to my efforts in supporting the household inspire me profoundly.”
Also speaking, Adeyemi Adeleye, a Lagos State-based media practitioner, says his uppermost wish from his family remains unfeigned love and care.
Adeleye said: “As a father in Nigerian society, like everyone, I will desire unwavering love and care not obtainable from anywhere in the world.
“I will expect members of my family to show love and care no matter what, while I labour and struggle to meet their needs.
“Family is built on love and it is for fellowship, partnership, and sharing.
“Members of my family owe me these while I reciprocate.”
Adeleye also wishes that family members will not constitute an emotional burden to him if he faces difficulties meeting their needs.
Bright Chigozie, a Factory Supervisor in Apapa, Lagos, who spends long hours away from home, echoes the security concerns, noting that fathers often endure physical and emotional stress without getting enough commendation.
Chigozie said: “Beyond government intervention, appreciation and support from family members are equally important.
