NEWS
Aba North Chairman, Timothy Iheke Urges Men to Prioritise Mental Health, Celebrate Progress Over Perfection, Celebrates Father’s Day
As Men’s Mental Health Week 2026 comes to a close alongside the celebration of Father’s Day, the Executive Chairman of Aba North Local Government Area, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke, delivers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and encouragement to men, urging them to embrace progress rather than pursue unattainable perfection.
In a statement marking the occasion on Sunday, June 21, 2026, the Chairman aligned his message with this year’s theme, “One Step at a Time,” which focuses on “Progress, Not Perfection.” He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the emotional, psychological, and social challenges many men face daily while continuing to shoulder enormous responsibilities within their families and communities.
Hon. Iheke noted that society often places unrealistic expectations on men, compelling them to remain strong in the face of adversity while concealing their personal struggles. He stressed that true strength lies not in silence but in the courage to seek support, speak up, and prioritize mental well-being.
The Aba North Chairman paid glowing tribute to fathers and father figures whose sacrifices and dedication continue to shape families and society. He described fathers as pillars of strength whose daily efforts often go unnoticed despite their immense contributions to the growth and stability of their homes.
According to him, every man deserves recognition not for achieving perfection but for the determination to keep moving forward despite life’s obstacles. He encouraged men facing difficult circumstances to remain hopeful, reminding them that setbacks are temporary and should never define their future.
Hon. Iheke further called for greater awareness and open conversations surrounding men’s mental health, emphasizing the need to dismantle the culture of silence that prevents many men from seeking help. He maintained that asking for support should never be viewed as a sign of weakness but rather as an act of courage and self-awareness.
Addressing young men, the Chairman urged them not to allow failures, disappointments, or challenges to limit their aspirations. He encouraged them to focus on continuous growth, self-improvement, and the pursuit of their goals one step at a time.
The local government boss also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting the welfare, empowerment, and development of men, youths, and families across Aba North, noting that healthy individuals are critical to building stronger communities.
As the world marked Father’s Day and the end of Men’s Mental Health Week, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke’s message resonated as a timely reminder that success is not measured by perfection but by the courage to keep advancing, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way.
He urged men everywhere to celebrate their victories, learn from their challenges, and continue taking meaningful steps toward a healthier, more fulfilled, and purposeful life.
The message concluded with warm Father’s Day wishes to fathers and men of goodwill, encouraging them to remain steadfast, hopeful, and confident in their journey, one step at a time.