Valentine Ozigbo, a prominent Nigerian philanthropist, has hailed fathers for their enterprise, strength and selflessness as the world marks Father's Day on Sunday, June 20, 2021.
Father's Day is a celebration of paternal bonds, honouring fatherhood, and celebrating the role fathers play in the family and society. The day is commemorated in most parts of the world on the third Sunday of June.
In a statement issued from his country home in Amesi, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr Ozigbo eulogised fathers for their commitment and bravery, standing by their families, and showing leadership at the crucial moments.
"As children, fathers introduce us to the importance of sacrifice, as they naturally shoulder the needs of the family. This sense of responsibility and self-denial is an important fibre that strengthens family ties," Ozigbo, the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, stated.
"As a father, I am constantly reminded of my duty to my wife and my lovely children. I am thankful for this responsibility and I consider it my most important role, the greatest blessing, and most profound honour of my life."
Paying homage to the fathers who have been instrumental in his life, Ozigbo said, "I am proud to be the son of Andrew Ozigbo, the most thoughtful, considerate, and inspiring of men. As a long-serving headmaster and catechist, my father taught me the significance of service, duty, and leadership.
"As the last child, I am also the product of community fathering from my elder brothers, especially my late brother, Collins Ozigbo, who was a role model and mentor," the respected business leader said.
"I am also grateful for the many fathers I have come across in my personal, professional, and public life, especially the father of my lovely wife, Chief John Ogbonnaya Opara Agbaeze"
Ozigbo, who is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) frontrunner ahead of the 2021 Anambra governorship election, thanked the fathers in his campaign organisation and their families for making sacrifices for the greater good of Ndi Anambra.
"My gratitude extends to the members of the VCO Campaign Organisation, the numerous fathers that have chosen to be partners in progress. I salute you for your sacrifice, courage, and resilience for sticking with me on this journey."
Valentine Ozigbo is the founder of the eponymously named Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, one of Nigeria's most recognisable non-profit organisations. Through its various programmes, it has touched the lives of over 100,000 people in Anambra State.