To Nigerian Parents: Your Sacrifice Shines, Now Recharge for the Holidays

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While discussing life over shawarma at a restaurant, I didn't realise my friend was quietly listening to "My World" by Lucky Dube playing softly in the background.

Suddenly, he asked, "If given the choice right now to be a child or an adult, which would you choose?" I laughed and quickly replied I'd choose adulthood, after all, adulthood represents freedom. Children are bound by rules, burdened with endless errands, and given only a small piece of meat during meals, or at least that's how it was when I was growing up.

As I enthusiastically listed adulthood's perks, like independence, making money, and enjoying certain privileges, I noticed my friend wasn't as thrilled as I was. Curious, I asked why he had posed the question.

It turned out he had just managed to pay his children's school fees moments before their exams began, narrowly avoiding a situation where the school would prevent them from sitting exams until fees were fully settled. He lamented the relentless cycle of school fees, September, January, and the ongoing financial demands that seem never-ending.

Honestly, it struck a chord. It reminded me of the struggles many parents in Nigeria endure to meet family obligations. Yet, having chosen the path of parenthood, not priesthood or singlehood focused solely on personal affairs and spirituality, we have committed ourselves to overcoming these challenges no matter what.

As I write this, most Nigerian schools have already closed for the session. I'd like to use this opportunity to celebrate all the MEN and women dedicated to their family responsibilities, diligently paying school fees and managing household demands, regardless of the personal sacrifices involved.

Choosing responsibility is indeed noble, and I pray that God continually blesses our efforts and opens doors of opportunity for us.

As I told my friend, there's a time for everything, a time to labour, cook, wake up early, oversee homework, and worry about our children's safety, and a time to give thanks for the holiday break, a much needed period of rest before the next school year.

With the holidays upon us, fellow MEN and women handling men’s duties, remember to prioritise yourself. Take time for exercise; if tennis is your thing, fantastic. Visit the cinema, go out to Blakes Resort if you are in Abuja to enjoy live bands, or spend quality time with friends facing similar responsibilities. Knowing you’re not alone in these struggles is incredibly comforting and energising.

These recommended activities will help recharge your batteries, preparing you for future responsibilities.

Wishing you a fulfilling and rewarding August 2025!

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