Picture illustrating a father holding his child. Photo: Murdo Macleod/Guardian
As Nigeria celebrates Father’s Day 2026, many fathers say they are battling a silent but severe mental health crisis driven by crushing economic hardship and deep societal pressures.
They also 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 the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Lagos highlighted their expectations for stronger family bonds and a more inclusive society.
NAN reports that Father’s Day 2026 is being celebrated on Sunday, June 21; it is an annual observance marked on the third Sunday of June.
