Father’s Day: Nigerian Fathers Lament Mental Health Struggles, Economic Hardship

As Nigeria celebrates Father’s Day 2026, many fathers have raised concerns over increasing mental health challenges, economic hardship and societal pressures affecting men across the country.

The fathers, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday, called for stronger family support systems, improved mental health awareness and greater recognition of the challenges confronting men in society.

NAN reports that Father’s Day 2026 was celebrated on Sunday, June 21, in line with the annual tradition of observing the occasion on the third Sunday of June.

A men’s mental health advocate and Founder of the Life Abuse Foundation, Halima Layeni, said many Nigerian fathers were silently battling psychological distress caused by financial struggles, unemployment, underemployment and pressure to meet family responsibilities.

Layeni also highlighted concerns over unreported cases of domestic violence against men, arguing that male-related challenges often receive limited attention.

She advocated the establishment of a Federal Ministry of Men Affairs to provide focused interventions for men’s health, economic empowerment and social welfare.

“The establishment of the Ministry of Men Affairs is of immense importance. 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.

A civil servant, Ferdinand Okoji, said many fathers experience severe stress due to expectations that they must provide for their families despite worsening economic conditions.

He explained that many men struggle to meet daily financial responsibilities while also dealing with pressure to maintain peace and stability at home.

“Fathers toil day and night to ensure they put food on the table, take care of the family, provide, and make sure that everybody is happy,” Okoji said.

He added that some men return home hoping for emotional support but instead face additional pressures, increasing their mental burden.

A 60-year-old father, Papa Ejima, expressed concern over the impact of inflation, unemployment, insecurity and migration on fathers’ wellbeing.

He said the increasing number of young Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities had created anxiety among ageing parents over who would care for them in the future.

Ejima noted that some unemployed graduates blame their parents for economic difficulties, adding that the situation has placed additional emotional pressure on families.

The fathers urged government, communities and families to create supportive environments where men can openly discuss mental health challenges and access help without fear of stigma.