In today’s world, family structures are changing rapidly. Divorce, separation, absentee fathers, and even the choice of single parenting have left many homes without a father figure. This has sparked an important debate: Can a single mother successfully raise a boy to become a responsible and successful man?
While a mother’s love and sacrifice are unquestionable, many argue that boys need male role models to guide them into manhood. To understand how Nigerians view this sensitive issue, we spoke to people from different walks of life — and the opinions were sharply divided.
Emmanuel, 24, student
“Yes, I strongly believe she can. My mum raised me and my siblings after my dad left. She was strict when necessary but also loving and supportive. People think boys must have a father, but I had role models like my uncle and pastor. Today I’m a graduate doing well. From my experience, a boy can succeed with only his mother if she is committed.”
Mr. Ibrahim, 50, driver
“Honestly, it is not easy. A woman alone cannot cover everything. Discipline from a father carries a different weight. Without that, boys can become stubborn or easily influenced. Mothers try, but the father’s gap is very hard to fill.”
Mummy Dolani, single mother
“I believe it’s possible, but it takes support. I discipline my son, but I also make sure he has uncles and teachers to look up to. Fatherhood is not just about blood, it’s about who shows up to guide the child.”
Grace, 35, single mother
“A boy needs his father to shape his identity. I grew up with just my mum, and although she gave her best, there were times I wished I had my dad to talk to about manhood. That’s a struggle many boys may face.”
Mummy Doyin, 42, trader
“Mothers are stronger than people think. I know homes with both parents where children still turn out badly, while some single mothers raise disciplined, successful boys. It depends on the effort, prayers, and determination of the mother.”
Mr. Johnson, 55, father
“There will always be a vacuum if the father is absent. Even if the boy succeeds in life, emotionally he may still feel incomplete. A father teaches discipline differently, sometimes just by example. Without that presence, the boy may search for answers elsewhere.”
Bukola, 38, tailor
“On my street, a single mother raised her son alone. He graduated with first-class honours and is very respectful. She worked tirelessly but also gave him strong moral and spiritual guidance. That proves it can be done.”
Samuel, 27, youth worker
“It’s not black and white. Some boys raised by single mothers do very well, others struggle with identity. It depends on the environment, the mother’s strength, and the support system. It’s more about circumstances than simply whether the father is there.”
Segun, 19, student
“I don’t believe it works well. A boy without his father is like a building without a foundation. No matter how hard the mother tries, something will always be missing. That lack of fatherly discipline is dangerous, especially with today’s peer pressure.”
Oyin, 33, mother
“Yes, it’s possible. In today’s generation, success depends on who truly cares for the child. If a mother is committed and surrounds her son with mentors and positive influences, he can grow into a responsible man. Many women are already proving this.”
Conclusion
The responses show that Nigerians remain divided. Some insist a father’s absence leaves an irreplaceable void, while others argue that love, guidance, and support — even from boys into strong and responsible men.
What seems clear is that while single mothers face enormous challenges, many are proving every day that with determination, faith, and community support, they can indeed raise successful sons.
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