From TCNEWS

As Father’s Day 2025 unfolds, a diverse group of leaders and advocates from Abia State, Nigeria, have shared their reflections on the evolving role of fatherhood.

Speaking exclusively via WhatsApp, these individuals, each distinguished in their respective fields, offer insights into the significance of fatherhood in contemporary society. 

CHIEF RICHARD HARRISON: Empowering Fathers Through Education and Economic Support.

Chief Richard Harrison, former commissioner for finance and education in Abia State and chairman of the Harrison Goodness Foundation, discusses the socioeconomic challenges fathers face.

He emphasizes the need for educational opportunities and economic support to empower fathers.

“Education and economic stability are key to enabling fathers to fulfill their roles effectively,” Harrison asserts.

His foundation provides scholarships, promotes agriculture, and offers health outreaches to alleviate financial burdens on families. 

REV. DR. BLESSED AMALAMBU: A Call to Fathers to Lead with Purpose.

Rev. Dr. Blessed Amalambu, founder of Christ Generation Ministry Inc. and Secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Abia State chapter, emphasizes the spiritual responsibility of fathers.

 He asserts that fatherhood extends beyond biological ties, urging men to lead with purpose and integrity.

 “Fathers must be pillars of strength and guidance, nurturing their families in faith and character,”  he states.

Amalambu’s message underscores the importance of fathers as moral compasses in their communities. 

DR. MRS. PEACE AMARAEGBULAM: Advocating for Children with Special Needs.

Dr. Mrs. Peace Amaraegbulam, an orthopedic surgeon and founder of The Straight Child Foundation, highlights the critical role fathers play in the lives of children with special needs.

 She notes that active fatherhood is instrumental in the development and well-being of these children. 

“Fathers are essential in providing emotional support and advocating for the rights and needs of their children,”  she remarks.

Her foundation focuses on addressing conditions like clubfoot and cerebral palsy, striving to integrate specialized care into Nigeria’s healthcare system. 

“We celebrate fathers who are actively involved in the lives of their children, particularly those with special needs. It makes so much difference to both the children and the mothers”, she add.

ENGR. JAMES NNADOZIE UCHEGBUO: Strengthening Community Leadership

Engr. James Nnadozie Uchegbuo, President General of the Igbo Vanguard Group and Ahuwa Oboro autonomous community, reflects on the communal aspects of fatherhood.

He advocates for fathers to take active roles in community leadership and development.

“Fathers should be at the forefront of community initiatives, fostering unity and progress,”  Uchegbuo states.

His leadership in both sociocultural and local governance underscores the collective responsibility fathers have in societal advancement. 

CHIEF CHIDI NKEM ARUOMA: Promoting Economic Empowerment for Fathers.

Chief Chidi Nkem Aruoma, President of the Traders Association of Nigeria Abia State chapter, addresses the economic challenges faced by fathers in the informal sector.

He advocates for policies that support small-scale traders and entrepreneurs. “Economic empowerment of fathers leads to stronger families and communities,” Aruoma asserts.

His leadership in the traders’ association focuses on advocating for better working conditions and opportunities for fathers in the business sector. 

AMB. MOSES ONYEGBULE: Advocating for Cultural Preservation and Family Values

Amb. Moses Onyegbule, President General of Igbo Ekene Global Development Union, discusses the intersection of fatherhood and cultural preservation. 

He stresses the importance of fathers in imparting cultural values and traditions to the next generation.

 “Fathers are custodians of culture, and it is their duty to ensure that our heritage is passed down,”  Onyegbule emphasizes.

His organization works towards promoting Igbo culture and values globally. 

These perspectives collectively underscore the multifaceted role of fathers in modern society, emphasizing leadership, advocacy, empowerment, community involvement, cultural preservation, and economic support. 

Their voices contribute to a broader understanding of fatherhood’s significance in shaping a resilient and progressive society.