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From Juliana Taiwo Obalonye, Abuja; Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja and Tony Osauzo, Benin
Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo and senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have sent tributes to fathers across Nigeria and beyond on the occasion of this year’s Father’s Day celebration yesterday.
In her Father’s Day message yesterday, Mrs. Tinubu said fathers play a vital role in shaping the character, confidence and future of their children.
In a statement, titled “Message on Father’s Day 2026,” she paid tribute to fathers and father figures across Nigeria, saying their daily guidance and sacrifice strengthen families and communities.
“Fathers play a vital role in shaping the character, confidence and future of their children. Through their guidance, protection and dedication, fathers help build strong families and stronger communities.”
Mrs. Tinubu also honoured mentors and role models who show up each day, working to provide for their families, and urged fathers to remain steady sources of support and wisdom.
“May you continue to be a source of wisdom, strength and inspiration to your families,” she added.
On his part, Edo governor urged fathers to take a more active role in shaping the lives of their children and protecting them from crime, negative peer influence and moral decline.
He, however, commended men, who continue to raise their children with discipline, faith, responsibility and strong moral values.
The governor described fatherhood as one of the greatest responsibilities entrusted to men, noting that the strength and future of society depend largely on the values established within families.
“Every father who wakes up daily, works hard, sacrifices for his family and raises his children in the fear of God deserves to be celebrated. Your efforts, love and commitment are recognised and appreciated.”
He called on fathers across Edo State and beyond to be more deliberate in their responsibilities as leaders of their homes, urging them to pay closer attention to their children’s activities, friendships and decisions while providing proper guidance.
He advised parents to counsel their children against the dangers of cultism, kidnapping, internet fraud and other criminal activities, warning that the consequences of crime often affect entire families.
“We have seen families lose their peace, properties destroyed and the future of young people ruined because of involvement in criminal activities. Many of these situations could have been prevented through early guidance and proper parental supervision,” he added.
He disclosed that the Edo State government had intensified efforts to tackle kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes through improved security measures and the establishment of special courts for speedy prosecution of offenders.
He warned that anyone involved in criminal activities would face the full weight of the law, stressing that the era of impunity was over.
“No father should have to watch his child lose his future because of crime. This is why parents must remain involved, provide direction and help their children make the right choices,” he stated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described fathers as unsung heroes whose sacrifices, resilience and dedication remain the foundation of strong families and stable societies.
In a goodwill message yesterday, the lawmaker commended fathers and father-figures for their invaluable contributions to the upbringing of children and the development of communities, noting that their efforts often go unrecognised despite the critical roles they play.
She said fathers continue to provide leadership, protection, guidance and support for their families, even in the face of economic and social challenges.
“On this special Father’s Day, I celebrate all fathers and father-figures, whose steadfast commitment, love and sacrifices continue to strengthen our families and communities. Fathers are truly the unsung heroes of our society. Their tireless efforts, resilience and devotion deserve our deepest appreciation.”
The senator stressed that responsible fatherhood remains essential to nation-building, arguing that the values fathers instil in their children help shape future generations and contribute to the growth of a peaceful and prosperous society.
According to her, a father’s wisdom, discipline and example leave lasting impacts on the lives of children, while their sacrifices and guidance help nurture dreams, build character and inspire hope.
She added that the influence of fathers extends beyond the home and contributes significantly to the moral fabric of society.
She urged fathers to remain steadfast in the discharge of their responsibilities and continue serving as positive role models to younger generations.
She also encouraged young people to embrace virtues such as integrity, hard work, humility and compassion, saying these values are critical to personal and national development.
While further calling on families and society to recognise and celebrate the contributions of fathers, the lawmaker emphasised that strong homes remain the bedrock of national development.
“Today, I salute every father in Kogi Central, Kogi State and across Nigeria. Your sacrifices may not always receive public recognition, but they are deeply appreciated. Thank you for the countless ways you provide, protect, mentor and support your families. May God reward your labour abundantly.”
She concluded by praying for God’s continued blessings, good health, wisdom, strength and prosperity for fathers across the country, while wishing them a joyful Father’s Day celebration.
