WHAT MAKES A REAL FATHER? — Dr. ODARO REFLECTS ON THE TRUE MEANING OF FATHERHOOD

BENIN CITY – Academic and public affairs analyst, Dr. Kelly Odaro, has called on men to embrace the full responsibilities of fatherhood, stressing that being a father goes far beyond biological parenthood.

In a reflection to mark Father’s Day, Odaro said true fatherhood is earned through responsibility, sacrifice, commitment and love, rather than merely by bringing children into the world.

According to him, many children grow up without the presence, guidance and support of their fathers, leaving mothers to bear the burden of raising families alone.

He recounted the story of a former student who harboured deep resentment towards his biological father for abandoning the family years earlier. The student’s mother, he said, single-handedly raised the children despite severe hardships.

“To him, the man was merely a biological contributor to his existence, not a father,” Odaro noted.

He lamented that such experiences are common in society, with many fathers either abandoning their families or remaining physically present while being emotionally absent from their children’s lives.

Odaro argued that fatherhood involves much more than providing food and shelter. He said responsible fathers offer guidance, discipline, encouragement and emotional support while helping to shape the character and future of their children.

“The influence of a responsible father cannot be overstated. Children who grow up with caring and involved fathers are generally more likely to develop confidence, perform better academically and navigate life’s challenges more successfully,” he said.

He added that the absence of responsible fatherhood often leaves emotional wounds that persist into adulthood, affecting the wellbeing and development of many young people.

Odaro urged fathers to use the Father’s Day celebration as a period of self-reflection rather than merely exchanging greetings and gifts.

“Every father should ask himself a simple but profound question: Am I truly fulfilling my responsibilities to my family?” he stated.

He maintained that true fatherhood is measured by a man’s willingness to remain present, committed and accountable throughout a child’s life.

Odaro also paid tribute to fathers who continue to provide, protect, nurture and guide their families despite numerous challenges, describing them as worthy of admiration and gratitude.

“A father is not merely the man who gives a child life. A father is the man who helps that child to live, grow and thrive,” he concluded.

Dr. Odaro writes from Benin City.