Fathers often stand in the background, quietly shaping our lives with their strength, wisdom, and unwavering support. They are more than just providers and protectors. Fathers are our mentors, friends, and sometimes, our greatest cheerleaders. This Father’s Day, we celebrate these incredible men who play vital roles in our life stories and acknowledge their multifaceted contributions and profound impact on our lives.

We invited our readers to share their most cherished memories and heartfelt stories about their fathers. Through these touching narratives, we celebrate the unique bond between fathers and their children. Join us to enjoy these inspiring tales that showcase the depth of a father’s love and the lasting legacy they create. Let’s honour the men who have guided, taught, and loved us unconditionally. 

Amaka Eche

I often tease my dad, Peter, that he would have been a travel blogger if he had been born in my generation. He’s such a diva who knows how to live in the moment but also enjoys capturing memories to return to later on. His Facebook is filled with embarrassing photos of me and my siblings—raw, unfiltered images of our times together through the years. Watching him encourages me to be open and vulnerable, something I struggle with even in my writing career. 

I live my life knowing that my dad always has my back. He has promised to go to the ends of the earth to protect his family if he must. It’s easy to believe him. He is always present at every event, no matter how unserious; he’s the father who sits in front with his camera following you everywhere. One time, on my way back to Lagos with a close friend from a small village where we’d served, the vehicle carrying us developed a fault along the expressway. An hour later, my dad had driven down with his driver and a cargo bus in tow to pick us up and usher us safely home. At my convocation, he wore the same colour as my graduation gown so we’d match. I often wonder what he’d have done if I’d graduated with a first class.

My fondest memory of my dad was him wading to the car through the flooded street where my primary school was situated, with me dry and safe in his arms. Another is the fact that I can “borrow” money from him without paying back. Best guy, for real!

Tunmise Jinadu

My dad, Lekan, is a quintessential dad. He taught me to put family first and other things will follow naturally. 

Princess

I have numerous memorable stories about my dad, Chukwuka; it’s difficult to single out just one. His role as a father is an ongoing, continuous tale in my life. One particular memory stands out: I had a competition the same day my dad had a work contract he was to travel for. I was young and terrified of people as I had low self-esteem. I fearfully spoke to my mum about how I wasn’t sure I would do well at the competition, and my dad overheard us talking. He asked if I’d feel better if he and my mum sat in the front row at the venue. I cried that I wasn’t sure it’d make anything better. They talked me out of my fear: people who go to competitions are equally human beings like myself. 

On the day of the competition, I expected just my mum to be present, but I was blown out of my mind when my dad walked into my classroom. Before I could even scream with excitement, the man carried me up and pecked me. He quickly said a prayer for me and the other students. This was the peak for me because his unexpected appearance filled me with joy and pride that my daddy had come to that class before we left with the school bus. A sudden surge of confidence fueled me that morning and, of course, I did well in the competition. I came second as a representative of my school while my school came first in the general competition.

He prioritised me over the contract he was to travel for. He travelled later that evening, which cost him more, but all that mattered to me was his presence and encouragement. 

This memory taught me the importance of parental support and the impact it can have on a child’s confidence and success. My dad’s sacrifice and love deserve all the praise and appreciation, and I cherish this memory among many others.

READ ALSO: Should children love or fear their fathers?

Azeez Kareem

My dad, Kareem, surprised me by coming to my graduation ceremony. It was memorable because I was not expecting him to come. I was happy, and that was the last time I saw my father. But it was also the best time, leaving a good memory with me even now that he’s gone. 

Joy Kingsley

I recently lost my dad, so it’s been hard to get over it. Peter Udoh was one of the best dads in the world, and I would not trade him for anything else. Growing up with both parents was an amazing experience. My dad was my first lesson teacher, and he taught me and my siblings a lot while he was alive. He was a strict, disciplined person. He never allowed us to mingle with friends, and he was always mindful of the people we moved with. At first, I thought he was being too strict and overprotective, but after losing him, I understood what he was doing. 

My dad was jovial and lively. The house was never boring while he was around. He would always crack jokes and tell stories, some fabricated. One of my favourite memories of my dad was him sharing tales of his childhood and cracking jokes with the family. He taught my siblings and me the importance of hard work and dedication. Knowing the kind of family he came from, my dad had to work hard to make a living. He is the reason why I’m so well-mannered. 

My dad is one of the cutest men I’ve ever met; my mom always brags that girls were always running after him when my dad was young. My dad was very prayerful; he would wake us up very early for morning devotion. Even in the daytime, he was always praying for his children. I miss him more than words can express. I wish I could turn back time and spend more moments with him. But I’m grateful for how much he impacted my life. He was our hero, mentor, guardian, teacher, pastor, and our rock. I can still feel his presence in my heart and soul. Knowing he is watching over us from above gives me comfort and strength. We, your children, will carry your legacy and make you proud. Rest in peace, Dad. Till we meet again someday. Happy Father’s Day.

Ariwoola Wuraola 

My dad, Ahmad, was a kind and generous man who always put others before himself. One rainy season in Lagos, our neighbourhood was flooded, and many homes were affected. My dad, without hesitation, opened our doors to our neighbours, offering them shelter, food, and lots of memorable stories.

Sangolade Tolulope Opeyemi 

My father, Deacon Philip Olufemi Otulaja, is my gist partner anytime he is around me. My father worked his life out to train and support his children. I have seen my father cry because of us. He loves his children and cherishes us so much. I love you, Daddy, and I can’t trade you for anything. 

Mrs Moronkeji 

My dad, Dr Abdulkareem Moronkeji Fiwasaye, is late now. He was a man with special attributes. Highly meticulous and he laid a good foundation for us before his demise.

As a medical doctor, he believed that education was the best legacy he could give to us, and he made sure we attended the best schools. During my years in the boarding house as a secondary school student, my dad imbibed the culture of reading in me. He would say, “Kike, for you to become a lawyer, you must read. Lawyers read a lot. Read a lot of storybooks. Read newspapers. There is always a lesson to learn.”

Dad played a more vital role in my life than my mum. As a writer, my first published work was launched by an organisation he belonged to. He was disciplined, hardworking, and religious. Apart from being a medical doctor, he was a farmer who owned a poultry, fish pond, and a cassava and palm kernel plantation. The foundation he laid made me keep working hard, and today I am a great lady. I remember him and pray for him every day, and I love him very much.

Oluwapelumi Owoseni

My dad, Temitope, is a very caring and dutiful father. He makes sure we are all fed and satisfied, even in these tough times. He is the best father anyone could ever wish for. Not only is he my dad, but he became my best friend and partner in crime. He is one in a million. I love you, papa.

Sotonye N.

I love knowing how things are made. As a child, I would always ask questions about construction sites. My dad, Nnaife, was a civil engineer and my fondest memory of him was when he explained how building foundations are laid. I don’t remember what he said, but I will always remember being in awe of him.

Zara

Whenever I faced a setback, my dad, Ken, would always encourage me and tell me, “You can only drown if you stop swimming. So just keep swimming.” Those words echo in my mind whenever I face any difficult situation.

Ada

My dad, Chijioke, always shows up for me, and one particular incident proved that for me. He wasn’t home, and I suddenly got sick. My sibling called him, and he immediately cancelled his meeting and came home. It wasn’t a serious illness, but he made sure to drive me to the hospital, stayed with me throughout, and drove me back home. He is the reason why I always show up for those that matter to me.