Catholic Men’s Organisation Wants Fathers To Promote Good Governance

The Catholic Men’s Organisation (CMO) of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ojota, Lagos, has called on Nigerian fathers to take active roles in civic engagement and nation-building, stressing that responsible fatherhood remains key to good governance and societal development.

The call was made during a two-day programme held from May 1 to 3, 2026, to mark the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker and the National Father’s Day celebration.

At the event, the provincial president of CMO, Lagos Ecclesiastical Province, HRH John Aigbokhaode, said civic participation by fathers is a moral obligation rather than a choice.

He urged men to uphold integrity, contribute to governance and raise responsible citizens.

According to him, the absence of good men in civic spaces often leads to poor societal outcomes, adding that fathers must position themselves as agents of change in both the church and the wider society.

In his welcome address, the CMO parish chairman, Mr Aluor Stephen Agusah, highlighted the critical role of fathers as leaders in families and society, stressing that their values and decisions shape future generations.

“The church, our community and indeed our nation look up to us. Our actions and values determine the direction of the next generation,” he said.

Agusah also commended members for their financial support and lauded the executive and planning committee for organising a successful event.

A major highlight of the programme was a free medical outreach for parishioners on May 1, featuring screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and prostate conditions, along with medical counselling.

Delivering a health talk, Romanus Eze, a pharmacist, emphasised the importance of preventive healthcare and early disease detection, urging the participants to prioritise regular medical checks.

Also, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Simeon Iwu, urged men to adopt discipline and prudence in managing resources amid the prevailing economic challenges.

He commended the initiative to provide free health services, describing it as timely and impactful.

The deanery coordinator, Mr John Ilechukwu Maka, noted that the role of fathers had evolved beyond provision to include mentorship and spiritual leadership, adding that men must prioritise family bonding, health and moral upbringing.

In a goodwill message delivered on her behalf, the Managing Director of Rex Insurance Plc, Mrs Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, described fatherhood as a sacred responsibility that demands integrity, service and commitment to societal progress.

The chairman of the occasion, Barr. Ben Onuoha, commended the transformation within the organisation and reaffirmed support for strengthening its activities.