As part of Ahotor FM’s Father’s Day celebration on the Adekyee Mu Nsem programme hosted by Alexander Nana Dogbe, three distinguished guests—Rev. Patrick Arthur, Dr. Charles Amoah Wilson, and Mr. Narh-Ayertey—shared their perspectives on the responsibilities of fathers and the critical role they play in building strong families and communities.
Rev. Patrick Arthur, Second Minister of Calvary Methodist Church, Community 3, Tema Diocese, emphasized that Father’s Day serves as an important reminder of the vital role fathers play in the lives of their children. According to him, a father is more than just a parent; he is a friend, counselor, protector, and nurturer.
He explained that as children progress through different stages of life, fathers must adapt to their evolving needs. At times, children need a trusted friend in whom they can confide, while at other moments they require a counselor who can offer wisdom, guidance, and direction. Fathers, he noted, also have the responsibility of protecting their children and providing the care, support, and encouragement necessary for their growth and development.
Addressing the question of whether a father should be a friend or a counselor to his child, Rev. Arthur stated that an effective father must be both. Beyond these roles, he stressed, fathers must also serve as protectors and nurturers, depending on the circumstances and developmental stage of the child. He urged fathers to remain emotionally available, actively involved, and committed to raising children with strong moral values.
Rev. Arthur further called on fathers to lead by example, noting that children often imitate the behaviour of their parents. He said fathers must demonstrate honesty, discipline, responsibility, humility, and respect if they expect their children to grow into responsible adults. According to him, the greatest legacy a father can leave behind is not wealth or material possessions, but the values, guidance, and love he imparts to his children.
Dr. Charles Amoah Wilson, Human Resource Practitioner and Founder of the RebeccaWilson Foundation, highlighted the importance of communication and relationship-building within families. He encouraged fathers to draw closer to their children by making time to talk and listen to them regularly.
According to Dr. Wilson, fathers should take a keen interest in their children’s lives by asking about their experiences at school, friendships, academic performance, aspirations, and any challenges they may be facing. He explained that many children struggle with issues they find difficult to discuss and therefore need parents who are willing to listen, understand, and support them.
He also advised fathers to create opportunities for family bonding through outings, recreational activities, and family gatherings. Such activities, he said, help strengthen relationships and create lasting memories that contribute to a healthy family environment.
Dr. Wilson further appealed to mothers to help children appreciate the sacrifices their fathers make. He encouraged mothers to remind their children that fathers work hard to provide for the family and contribute significantly to their well-being. He stressed that mutual respect and appreciation between parents help children develop stronger relationships with both parents and contribute to a more stable home environment.
Mr. Narh-Ayertey, Community 2 and 5 Local GNAT Chairman and SRC Patron of Tema Secondary School, focused on the need for fathers to invest in their children and provide adequately for their families.
He stated that a father is not merely the person who gives life to a child, but the individual who nurtures, guides, mentors, and supports the child throughout life’s journey. According to him, true fatherhood is demonstrated through commitment, sacrifice, and active involvement in a child’s development.
Mr. Narh-Ayertey observed that society often measures success through awards, promotions, and professional achievements. However, he argued that a father’s true success should be measured by the quality of his family and the values reflected in his children.
“A father’s success is not the awards he receives at work, but the achievements and positive impact seen within his family,” he emphasized.
He encouraged fathers to invest in the education, character development, and future aspirations of their children. He urged them to serve as role models who teach honesty, discipline, hard work, and respect for others. According to him, children are a father’s greatest investment and legacy, and every effort should be made to equip them for successful and productive lives.
The three speakers unanimously agreed that fathers play an indispensable role in nation-building through the families they raise. They called on fathers across Ghana to remain committed to their responsibilities as providers, mentors, counselors, protectors, and nurturers despite the economic and social challenges confronting many households.
They also urged society to celebrate and appreciate fathers who continue to sacrifice for the welfare of their families and contribute positively to the upbringing of future generations.
The Father’s Day discussion formed part of Ahotor FM’s Adekyee Mu Nsem programme hosted by Alexander Nana Dogbe, during which the speakers reflected on the importance of responsible fatherhood and the need to strengthen family values for national development.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah
