I have always wondered what fatherhood and mental fitness feel like, especially for Nigerian fathers, who seem to have a heavy burden catering for their families and trying to remain sane in this current economic situation.
Being a father in today’s Nigeria isn’t a small task. You’re expected to be the provider, protector, disciplinarian, handyman, life coach, and sometimes even the family clown — all before 7 a.m. on a weekday.
But here’s the question we rarely ask:
How are our fathers really doing — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually?
The Silent Struggles of Modern Fatherhood
Let’s be real — most Nigerian men were raised to be “hard.” No crying. No complaining. Just be a man.
But now, in 2025, we’re beginning to see faults in that model. This article is focused on the fatherhood and not the expectations of a husband. We leave that for another day!
Today’s fathers:
- Work 2–3 jobs or hustle on the side to keep up
- Navigate inflation, fuel scarcity, and school fees and food provision
- Feel pressure to succeed in a world that’s constantly shifting
- Battle burnout but smile anyway — “for the children”
And many do this with zero emotional support. No space to talk. No time to pause. No tools to cope.
So, What Does Mental Fitness Look Like for Fathers?
Just like we train our body, we can train your mind to stay clear, calm, and connected.
Mental fitness isn’t about being perfect — it’s about staying grounded, aware, and in control.
Here are some points I believe we can reflect on:
1. Pause Without Guilt
Taking a break doesn’t make you lazy. It makes you human. A rested father is a present father.
2. Talk to Someone
A trusted friend, therapist, coach, or even your partner. Saying “I’m not okay” is not weakness. It’s leadership.
3. Protect Your Headspace
Limit doomscrolling—leave the negetive online contents we come across every day on social media. Unfollow pressure-inducing pages and apps. Fill your mind with resources that build, not drain. Be intentional about this.
4. Journal the Stress Out
Write for 5 minutes a day. You’ll be shocked how much clarity that brings. It works for me!
5. Redefine Masculinity
You can be strong and gentle. Structured and flexible. You don’t have to be “hard guy” 24/7.
What Fathers Really Need in 2025
They need:
- Empathy, not endless expectations
- Community, not competition
- Tools, not just praise
- Reminders that they matter, even when they’re not “providing”
Under the Vibes: The Mental Load of the Odogwu
For all the strength, style, and status we associate with fatherhood [in Nigeria], there’s a truth we often skip — many men are struggling silently.
They’re expected to be eveything… but who checks in on them?
Who asks: “Daddy, how are you doing?”
The man you call Balogun might be battling anxiety.
The Shugaba in your house may be suppressing depression.
Even Odogwu gets tired.
As we celebrate fathers this month, let’s also check on their minds.
- Encourage open conversations.
- Make therapy a strength, not shame.
- Let’s normalize asking for help — and giving it.
Because strong men are not the ones who never bend — they’re the ones who know when to reach out.
From Me to You
We’re not just celebrating fathers — we’re backing them up.
From curated productivity tools to wellness-focused content and supportive gear drops, we’re building a community where fathers can breathe, build, and belong. Check out our Father’s Day Special post.
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🙌🏾 A Note to the Odogwu Reading This
You are allowed to rest.
You are allowed to feel.
You are allowed to grow in silence and still be great.
You are not alone.
Happy Father’s Day — and happy Men’s Mental Health Month.
We see you. We salute you.
🖤
– The Knightmode Team
