By: Kareem Malik.
Stakeholders from the media, academia, religious community and public sector on Wednesday gathered at the NERDC Hall in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, for the launch of Dingi Omo, a book authored by Mrs. Oluwatoyin Mathnuel, focusing on fatherhood, leadership and family values.
The event attracted notable personalities, including Professor Olusesan Oniyide, who represented the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Professor Kolawole, Director of Logistics and Transportation, Mr. Oshodi, representing the General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Mr. Bakare Oki, Mrs. Ojelabi, representing Prophet Ayodele, Prince Adelekan Adegbenro, Senior Lecturer in Mass Communication and Station Manager of Mainland FM, as well as the Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Mrs. Jumoke Johnson.
Speakers at the event described the book as a timely contribution to discussions on parenting and societal development, particularly for its emphasis on the role fathers play in raising responsible children and sustaining stable homes.
The book, published by Mathnuel Media Concepts, publishers of Insight Global News, was commended for drawing attention to the sacrifices, discipline and leadership expected of fathers in society at a time many believe their contributions receive limited recognition.
Reviewers of the publication stressed that responsible fatherhood extends beyond biological ties and must be built on sacrifice, moral guidance and emotional support. They linked many social problems among young people to the absence of father figures and the decline of family values.
Speaking during the review session, Prince Adelekan Adegbenro encouraged students and young people to read the book, noting that it contains lessons capable of positively influencing society.
He said fatherhood should be defined by responsibility, care and active involvement in the upbringing of children rather than mere biological connection.
According to the reviewers, fathers often make emotional and psychological sacrifices in providing for their families, yet such efforts are rarely appreciated despite their impact on the future of children and society.
Representing the General Overseer of MFM, Professor Olusesan Oniyide described Dingi Omo as one of the most profound books he had encountered in recent times.
He noted that fatherhood reflects leadership, adding that strong family leadership contributes to societal stability and direction.
Oniyide further observed that while motherhood is widely celebrated, fatherhood is often neglected in public discourse, a trend he said has weakened appreciation for the role fathers play in nation building and family stability.
Also speaking, NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Jumoke Johnson, described fathers as the “silent backbone” of many homes and called for greater recognition of responsible fatherhood in society.
She urged men to build stronger emotional bonds with their children despite work and financial pressures, adding that men who fail to shoulder their responsibilities should not be regarded as true fathers.
The event also featured remarks from representatives of LASTMA, who enlightened participants on the agency’s responsibilities before a presentation on the meaning behind the title Dingi Omo.
The phrase was described as a reflection of a well-cultured and properly nurtured child whose conduct mirrors the values instilled by a responsible father.
The gathering ended with goodwill messages, photographs and commendations for the author, as guests praised the book for stimulating renewed conversations on fatherhood, leadership and family responsibility in contemporary society.