Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, has paid glowing tribute to fathers across Nigeria and the world, describing them as indispensable pillars of strong families and critical partners in building a responsible and prosperous society.

This was as some fathers in Nigeria lamented insecurity and a lack of societal appreciation despite their toil to provide for their households.

Also, many fathers said they were battling a silent but severe mental health crisis driven by crushing economic hardship and deep societal pressures.

Expressing deep concern over “Nigeria’s declining fortunes”, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, urged citizens to reclaim their country through the ballot.

In her 2026 Father’s Day message yesterday, the First Lady celebrated the love, resilience, and sacrifices of fathers, acknowledging their enduring role in nurturing their children’s character, confidence, and future.

She said fathers remain central to the stability of families through their guidance, protection and unwavering commitment, noting that their contributions help lay the foundation for stronger communities and national development.

Mrs Tinubu also extended her appreciation to father figures, mentors and role models who continue to make a positive impact in the lives of young people by providing leadership, support and inspiration.

“On this Father’s Day 2026, we celebrate the love, strength and sacrifice of fathers across Nigeria and around the world. They play a vital role in shaping their children’s character, confidence and future. Through their guidance, protection and dedication, fathers help build strong families and stronger communities.

“Today, we honour all fathers, father-figures, role models and mentors who show up each day, working to provide for their families. May you continue to be a source of wisdom, strength and inspiration to your families,” she said.

FATHERS, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews on the occasion of Father’s Day, yesterday, expressed hope 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 security situation should be addressed urgently rather than 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 security issues are overwhelming, and our children deserve a safe atmosphere as they pursue their education,” Bamisetemi said.

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 wants to see his children grow up in a secure environment where they can pursue their education and aspirations without fear.

Julius Adeyemi, an accountant, argued that fathers do not receive enough accolades despite their heavy sacrifices and contributions towards the upkeep of their homes.

Corroborating Adeyemi’s view, Moses Akintokun, a chartered accountant, urged the government to commit more towards the economic prosperity of the nation to cushion the predominant financial stress among fathers.

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

OTHER men decried systemic gender bias and a lack of support structures for men in Nigeria and Africa, urging immediate nationwide commitment to mental health advocacy and institutional recognition for men.

Fathers who spoke with newsmen yesterday in Lagos highlighted their expectations for stronger family bonds and a more inclusive society.

Father’s Day is marked yearly on the third Sunday of June.

Underscoring the psychological weight modern men carry, men’s mental health advocate, Ms Halima Layeni, said a severe mental health crisis driven by relentless societal pressures and economic challenges was quietly affecting Nigerian fathers.

Layeni, the Founder and Executive Director of the Life Abuse Foundation, presented a grim overview of key issues confronting men across the country, including underemployment, financial insecurity and alarming rates of unreported domestic violence against men.

To cushion this crisis, she advocated the urgent establishment of a Federal Ministry of Men’s Affairs to ensure that men receive the structural protection and psychological support necessary for their well-being.

“The ministry will provide focused attention on men’s unique issues, improve health outcomes through targeted campaigns, and create economic opportunities that enhance stability and reduce poverty among men,” she said.

OBI warned that insecurity weakened institutions, while shrinking opportunities threatened the future of the coming generations.

In a Fathers’ Day message yesterday, Obi reflected on what he called the stark contrast between the Nigeria of his youth and the country today, questioning whether the nation’s challenges were caused by fate or collective failure.

The former governor of Anambra State recalled a time when Nigerians lived, studied, and conducted business across ethnic and religious lines without suspicion, describing the era as one marked by stronger national unity, security, and economic confidence.

According to him, the naira once commanded international respect, Nigerians travelled with pride, and citizens could move freely across the country without fear.

The NDC standard-bearer further lamented the weakening of key national institutions, including the electoral system, universities, healthcare services and public infrastructure, arguing that many Nigerians no longer enjoy the level of confidence and stability that once existed.

Despite the grim assessment, Obi said the country’s fortunes could still be reversed if citizens embrace their civic responsibilities and demand accountable leadership.