By Ogeyi Ebinyi
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, has called on fathers and male caregivers to take greater responsibility for their physical and mental wellbeing, stressing that healthier men are critical to building healthier families and communities.
In a statement marking Father’s Day 2026, themed “Fathers for Healthier Families,” Abayomi celebrated fathers, grandfathers, and male caregivers across Lagos State for their sacrifices, guidance, and commitment to family wellbeing.
According to the commissioner, fathers play a crucial role in promoting family health, from ensuring that children receive routine immunisation to supporting maternal health and creating environments where mental health discussions are encouraged.
“This Father’s Day, the Lagos State Ministry of Health celebrates every father, grandfather, and male caregiver across our state. Fathers play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of families. Your presence matters,” Abayomi stated.
The commissioner noted that while men are often expected to be strong and resilient, they must also pay attention to their own health needs. He highlighted that men globally die, on average, about five years earlier than women and encouraged them to embrace regular medical check-ups, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, and open conversations about stress and emotional challenges.
Abayomi further linked the Father’s Day message to Men’s Mental Health Month, observed every June under the theme “Breaking the Silence, Building Resilience.” He urged men to reject harmful stereotypes that discourage emotional expression, emphasizing that mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and burnout should not be viewed as signs of weakness.
“Depression, anxiety, and burnout are not weakness. Speak up. Seek help,” he said, while encouraging men to break away from traditional notions such as “man up” and “boys don’t cry,” which often prevent them from seeking support.
The health commissioner also underscored the importance of active fatherhood, noting that modern parenting extends beyond financial provision to active participation in children’s lives. He explained that spending quality time with children contributes significantly to their confidence, academic performance, and emotional development.
The statement coincides with the global observance of Men’s Health Month, whose 2026 theme, “Partners in Care: Advancing Men’s Health Through Connection, Education and Advocacy Across the Lifespan for Better Lifespans,” promotes stronger support systems, health education, and community engagement to improve health outcomes for men.
Abayomi expressed appreciation to fathers across Lagos State and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting healthier homes and communities through improved awareness and access to healthcare services.
“To all fathers in Lagos: Thank you for the sacrifices, the guidance, and the love. We stand with you in building healthier homes and a healthier Lagos,” he added.
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