By Our Correspondent
LAGOS — The Lagos State House of Assembly candidate for Amuwo Odofin Constituency, Hon. Thomas Victor Onwubiko, has described fathers as “indispensable pillars of the family and key architects of a peaceful and progressive society” as Nigerians joined the rest of the world to celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday.
In a message released to commemorate the day, the frontline politician and community leader paid glowing tribute to fathers across Amuwo Odofin and Nigeria, applauding their “unwavering commitment, sacrifices, and dedication” to the welfare of their families despite the prevailing economic and social challenges confronting the nation.
Onwubiko said Father’s Day offers a moment of reflection on the often-unseen labour of fathers and father figures who continue to nurture, guide, and inspire the next generation through exemplary leadership and selfless service.
“Today, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating our fathers, whose sacrifices, hard work, and commitment continue to strengthen our homes and communities,” he stated. “Fathers remain the backbone of every stable family, providing leadership, protection, guidance, and hope for future generations.”
The Amuwo Odofin lawmaker stressed that the role of fathers extends far beyond financial provision. According to him, fathers serve as mentors and role models whose values and conduct directly shape the moral compass, discipline, and character of children. He argued that responsible fatherhood is therefore a critical foundation for producing citizens who contribute positively to national development.
“Beyond providing for their families financially, fathers are mentors and role models whose influence helps shape the future of society through the values they instill in their children,” Onwubiko said. “The way a child is raised within the home determines, to a large extent, the kind of adult that child will become in society.”
He specifically commended fathers in Amuwo Odofin for their resilience and determination in ensuring their families continue to thrive amid Nigeria’s current economic difficulties. He acknowledged the daily sacrifices made by countless fathers to provide quality education, healthcare, shelter, and opportunities for their children, often at great personal cost.
The House of Assembly hopeful also extended appreciation to single fathers, guardians, and other father figures who have stepped into parental responsibilities with dedication and compassion. He described their commitment as “worthy of admiration and appreciation,” noting that fatherhood is defined more by responsibility than biology.
Calling for renewed focus on family values, Onwubiko urged fathers to continue promoting peace, unity, discipline, and mutual respect within their homes and communities. He said strong family structures remain essential to tackling many of the social challenges facing Nigeria, including youth crime and moral decline.
“As fathers continue to build strong families, they are also building a stronger society,” he added. “Every responsible father contributes immensely to nation-building by raising children who become productive and responsible citizens. The collective efforts of responsible fathers are critical to reducing youth crime, promoting educational excellence, and fostering community development.”
Onwubiko further used the occasion to call on government at all levels to implement policies that strengthen family welfare. He urged policymakers to prioritize job creation, economic opportunities, and an enabling environment that allows parents to adequately care for their families without undue hardship.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Amuwo Odofin Constituency, the Lagos Assembly candidate pledged to continue advocating for people-oriented policies and programmes aimed at improving residents’ standard of living. He said his legislative agenda, if elected, would focus on youth and women empowerment, quality education, strengthened healthcare delivery, and accelerated infrastructural development across the constituency.
“If elected, I will pursue people-oriented legislation that prioritizes family welfare, youth empowerment, economic growth, and sustainable community development,” he assured. “The family unit must be at the center of every policy we design because a healthy family produces a healthy society.”
Onwubiko also appealed to residents to remain united and continue supporting initiatives aimed at fostering peace, security, and inclusive development within Amuwo Odofin.
While wishing all fathers a joyful and memorable celebration, he prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health, wisdom, and strength upon them as they discharge their responsibilities to their families and society.
He concluded with a charge to fathers never to relent in raising children with integrity, patriotism, and compassion. “The future of Lagos State and Nigeria depends largely on the quality of leadership provided within the family,” Onwubiko said. “Let us continue to lead by example, because the children we raise today will determine the Nigeria of tomorrow.”
The message has drawn commendations from constituents and community groups in Amuwo Odofin, many of whom described it as timely and inspiring at a period when families are navigating tough economic realities.
