Historically, there has been little emphasis placed on the crisis of fatherlessness as there has been on motherlessness.
However, according to a 2018 UNICEF report, it is estimated that around 43% of Nigerian children under the age of 18 are fatherless. This means that approximately 17.5 million Nigerian youths are at significantly higher risk of struggling with adversity and mental health issues.
Numerous subsequent studies has found the implication of this, is that many fatherless children suffer from psychological disadvantages such as, low-self esteem and poor academic performance. These children invariably grow into adolescents and adults who battle with anxiety, depression and stress.
The manifold negative impacts are also the perpetuation of poverty, lack of positive role models and the breakdown of the family unit, upon which all good societies are cultivated.
A study conducted by Adeyinka A. Akinsulure-Smith and Adejoke O. Oluyomi found that fatherlessness is associated with earlier sexual debut of the young. The consequences of this is incalculable and can be devastating to the trajectory of the lives of the individuals, communities and ultimately, the country.
We do understand that not all fathers choose to be estranged from their children. Whether their absence is as a result of substance abuse, relationship problems with the mother or financial difficulty, we at the ICFF are committed to doing what it takes to reconcile families.