MUSA-ODODO ABDULRAHAMAN
Fatherhood is not merely a biological accident or a social construct; it is an Eternal, Divinely Ordained role at the very heart of Human existence. A Father is the cornerstone of the family, the foundation of society, and the architect of nations. He is the moral compass, the guide, and the protector of the home, entrusted with the sacred responsibility of shaping the next generation. From ancient civilizations to modern nations, the presence – or absence – of strong, responsible fathers has defined the trajectory of societies.
The Family is the oldest institution on Earth, predating all forms of government and societal structures. It is the prototype of Human organization, the first community, and the Natural incubator of values, discipline, and identity. As the Family goes, so goes the society; as the society goes, so goes the Nation. At the core of this primordial institution stands the Father, whose role determines the condition of the Family and, by extension, the fate of the Nation.
In history, we see abundant evidence of this truth. Ancient Greece, often heralded as the cradle of Western Civilization, placed immense emphasis on the role of Fathers in nurturing discipline, education, and civic responsibility. Fathers were expected to instill in their sons the virtues of courage, wisdom, and self-restraint – qualities that underpinned Greek philosophy, governance, and military prowess. Similarly, Rome’s strength lay in the pater familias, the head of the household, who was both a protector and a moral authority, ensuring the continuity of Rome’s cultural and societal values.
Modern examples further underscore the critical role of Fatherhood in Nation-building. Lee Kuan Yew, often regarded as the Father of modern Singapore, transformed a small, resource-poor country into a global economic powerhouse through visionary leadership, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to education and innovation. Nelson Mandela, revered as the Father of South Africa, led a fractured nation out of the shadow of apartheid with principles of forgiveness, justice, and reconciliation. These men exemplify the principle that where goes the Father, goes the Nation.
In traditional African Culture, Fatherhood was Revered as a Sacred and indispensable role, forming the cornerstone of the Family and Society. Fathers were not only providers and protectors but also custodians of Wisdom, Values, and Heritage. They served as the Spiritual and Moral anchors of their Households, Guiding their Children in the ways of their Ancestors while preparing them to face the challenges of Life. The African Father was a Mentor, teaching his children skills for survival, principles for living harmoniously, and an appreciation for communal responsibilities.
In many African Societies, the Father embodied the concept of Ubuntu – the belief in the interconnectedness of all Humanity. His role extended beyond his immediate Family to the larger Community, where he was a Mediator, Leader, and Elder whose counsel shaped societal norms and governance. Fathers were expected to lead by example, demonstrating Virtues such as Integrity, Courage, and Selflessness. They also played a critical role in Rites of Passage, Initiating their Children into adulthood and ensuring the preservation of Cultural Traditions and Identity.
However, with the advent of colonialism, modernization, and the erosion of traditional values, the role of the Father in African Culture has been significantly diminished. Today, many African Families grapple with the absence or neglect of Fathers, leaving a void that has contributed to social disintegration, moral decline, and the weakening of communal bonds.
Reviving the Priceless Culture of Traditional African Fatherhood is essential for addressing these challenges. By embracing the timeless values of responsibility, mentorship, and communal care that defined African Fathers, we can rebuild the Foundations of our Societies. Fathers must once again become the Moral Compass of their Families and Communities, transmitting the Virtues of Respect, Unity, and Resilience to future generations.
This revival is not merely about returning to the past but about reclaiming the Wisdom embedded in our Heritage to navigate the complexities of the present. Traditional African Fatherhood offers a blueprint for strong families, cohesive communities, and thriving nations. By honoring and restoring this sacred role, we can inspire a renaissance of African Identity and Greatness, rooted in the enduring Principles of our Ancestors.
However, the absence of responsible Fatherhood has devastating consequences. A Family without a Father figure often struggles with instability, poverty, and a lack of direction. Children raised in fatherless homes are statistically more likely to experience emotional distress, academic failure, and societal alienation. This breakdown at the familial level reverberates through the community and, ultimately, the nation. Societies where Fatherhood is devalued or neglected often face rising crime rates, diminished social cohesion, and weakened cultural identity.
Nigeria today stands as a vivid testament to this reality. A nation blessed with abundant resources and unparalleled potential, Nigeria struggles with systemic corruption, insecurity, and social disintegration. At the root of these challenges is the erosion of the Family structure and the abdication of Fatherly roles. Many homes lack the guiding hand of a responsible Father, leaving children without the discipline, love, and values they need to thrive. The ripple effects are evident in a generation plagued by disillusionment and a society teetering on the brink of moral and cultural bankruptcy.
The solution lies in a return to the Natural Order of the Family. Fathers must reclaim their rightful place as the Bedrock of their Homes, embodying Values of Integrity, Selflessness, and Accountability. They must become Role Models, Mentors, and Protectors, instilling in their Children a Sense of Purpose, Identity, and Responsibility. The Family must once again become a Sacred Space where Virtues are Nurtured, and the Foundations of a Prosperous Society are laid.
Nigeria, in particular, needs Fathers who can Birth a New National Consciousness. It needs leaders who will govern with Wisdom, Citizens who will Uphold Justice, and Families that will Champion Unity. The task of Nation-building is not the sole responsibility of political leaders; it begins in the Home, where Fathers shape the Values, Aspirations, and Dreams of the next generation.
If Nigeria is to rise as the Pride of Africa and a Beacon of Hope for Humanity, it must invest in the Restoration of Fatherhood. This means not only encouraging men to embrace their roles but also creating Cultural, Economic, and Policy Frameworks that support strong Families. Media narratives must celebrate responsible Fatherhood, while schools and religious institutions must reinforce its importance.
The Family is Society’s First School, and the Father is its First Teacher. The lessons learned at Home ripple outward, shaping Communities, Nations, and Civilizations. Let us recognize the Eternal Truth that Nations rise and fall on the Strength of their Families, and Families rise and fall on the Strength of their Fathers.
It is time for Nigeria’s Fathers to Rise. It is time for them to Lead their Homes with Wisdom, Courage, and Love. It is time for them to Birth a New Nigeria – a Nation that stands as a testament to the Transformative Power of Fatherhood, a Nation that Inspires the World with Her Unity, Prosperity, and Peace. Where are the Fathers? They are the answer to the Nation’s cry. Where goes the Father, goes the Nation. Let us Rise, and let the Nation follow!
Yours for Nigeria as a Global Leader.
Abdulrahaman is the Founder/President, Initiative for Discovery of Nigeria Heritage and Endowment (IDNHE).
Project Coordinator,
National Policy Dialogue.
www.nationalpolicydialogue.org