Ledgers Of Fatherhood

In the quiet hours before the city stirred, Kunle would rise each day, preparing for long shifts behind the wheels to provide for his family. Like many fathers, market traders, professionals, artisans, and retirees. He carried the weight of responsibility with quiet determination. For Kunle, love was expressed through sacrifice: school fees paid on time, food on the table, and dreams slowly built through years of hard work. But like many, he believed that provision was enough. He never paused to consider what would happen if he was no longer there to guide, provide, and protect.

When Kunle passed unexpectedly, his absence left more than emotional pain. It created uncertainty. His savings, properties, money due for repayments, and intentions for his children’s future were not clearly documented. His wife, Adeola, found herself burdened with questions she could not answer and decisions she was not prepared to make. What Kunle had built with love and effort now faced delays, disputes, and confusion, especially with estranged family members coming to collect their pound of flesh. In that moment, his story became a powerful lesson within the community: a father’s responsibility goes beyond provision. It includes preparation.

Across the neighborhood, other fathers began to reflect. Chinedu, a young professional supporting his parents and siblings, realized that even in the early stages of building wealth, planning was crucial. Ayo, a civil servant and father of three, recognized the importance of securing his children’s future and even their education beyond his lifetime in case of unforeseen circumstances. Even retired mentors like Mr. Balogun began encouraging younger men to formalize their wishes and organize their affairs.

They began to understand that estate planning is a father’s final act of protection: a way to ensure that everything he worked for continues to support his family. Creating a Will ensures that assets are distributed according to his wishes. Establishing a Living Trust provides structure, protecting wealth and guiding how it is used. Setting up an Education Trust secures the future of children, ensuring their dreams are not interrupted. These are not just financial tools, they are expressions of love, responsibility, and foresight.

Slowly, change began. Fathers sought guidance, documented their assets, and made intentional decisions for their families’ futures. They realized that planning is not about expecting the worst, but about securing the best for those they love. It is about leaving clarity instead of confusion, security instead of struggle, and peace instead of uncertainty.

This Father’s Day, the meaning of fatherhood extends beyond today’s sacrifices to tomorrow’s security. Honour your role not just by providing—but by planning.

Take the step to create a Will, set up a Living Trust, or establish an Education Trust for your children. Speak to a professional and put the right structures in place. Because a father’s greatest legacy is not just what he builds but how well he secures it for the future.

Fatherhood is more than providing for today. It's about protecting tomorrow.

Take the next step in securing your family's future with a tailored estate plan.

✔ Create a Will to ensure your wishes are honoured- https://fcmbtrustees.com/portal/

✔ Set up a Living Trust to preserve and protect your assets- https://www.fcmbtrustees.com/images/downloads/Private-Trust-Data-Form.pdf

✔ Establish an Education Trust to safeguard your children's dreams- https://www.fcmbtrustees.com/images/downloads/Education-Trust-Form.pdf

Visit our website: www.fcmbtrustees.com

Send us a mail: fcmbtrustees@fcmb.com

Leave clarity, not confusion. Leave security, not uncertainty.

Speak with FCMB Trustees today and start building a legacy that lasts.