Fatherhood is a life-changing journey that tests the resilience of the strongest men. The responsibility of being a role model and leaving a legacy for your little ones can sometimes be hard to navigate in silence. In 2024, we loudly and proudly honour the fathers who continue to show up in this way.
To celebrate the incredible experience of fatherhood, PiggyVest spoke to four Nigerian dads about how their lives have changed since they became fathers. They talk about navigating their family finances and share advice for aspiring fathers.
“If you fail to plan, you’ve planned to fail,” — Jamiu, Technical Consultant, 37.
My son was born in November of 2022, and so much has changed since then. I was the type to spend on myself on a whim, but now, every personal expense I make must be well-thought-out.
Fatherhood has made me a planner. At home, all our major expenses are documented in a budget. Every month, we review our monthly budget and spend based on that. Another thing I’ve learned is patience. Dealing with my son requires a lot of patience, and I’ve had to grow a thick skin.
Since becoming a father, my mantra has been, “If you fail to plan, you’ve planned to fail,” and that’s the one advice I’d like to leave behind for those looking to become fathers.
“Parenting has to be deliberate” — Kunle, Sales Training Manager, 41.
I have three children, the first of which was born in 2013. Since I became a father, I felt a newfound sense of responsibility, knowing my kids now look up to me. Knowing I am their first role model has helped me to be disciplined.
My wife and I collaborate to make major financial decisions at home, and that means being more accountable with my finances. We plan everything together and that has helped cut down on any unnecessary spending. We also have short-, mid-, and long-term savings, depending on the goals we want to achieve.
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Parenting has to be deliberate, and it requires a lot of sacrifice. You have to be ready to deny yourself some things to be the best father to your kids. They watch you and tend to take after you. Gone are the days of, “Do as I say”, because they “Do as you do”. And finally, if you are not ready, then don’t rush into fatherhood. It takes a lot to be a fantastic dad, but it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
“The only strategy I have right now is a double income home” — Charles, Consultant, 29.
My first, a girl, was born in 2022, and my son was born this year. As a young-ish dad of two, fatherhood has taught me to see beyond myself and also cherish every moment because these children grow up so fast.
Nigeria is showing everybody serious shege, and so the only money strategy that works for me right now is having a double-income home. My wife and I both contribute to the welfare of our home and children, so it has been smooth sailing.
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If I were to leave any advice for future dads, it would be to take it easy on themselves. Love yourself and love your kids; everything else will be alright.
“Selflessness is the way of fatherhood” — Alex, Weddings & Event Videographer, 34
I became a father in 2022, and now I have two kids. Omo, fatherhood has made me see things in a different light. I’ve had no choice to become more responsible and hardworking. So that I can show up for my family in the way they need me.
As for the financial responsibilities of being a father, savings have been the strategy; my savings have saved me. If you’re about to, or planning to become a father, just be ready to be selfless; that’s the way of fatherhood.
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More than just another calendar date, let’s use this year’s Father’s Day celebration to show some love to the men who have nurtured, mentored, shaped and supported us throughout our lives.
Happy Father’s Day!
