Single Parents Lament Economic Hardship, Seek Govt, Community Support

• Titilope Adako

The prevailing hardship and economic situation of the country require quick and lasting solutions from the government and all other relevant societal stakeholders.

Citing job loss, fewer economic opportunities, and insufficient wages, single parents are one of the most affected by economic hardship, owing to their enormous responsibilities, especially grappling with the basic needs of their children and family, as well as the survival of taking care of their personal lives.

A cross-section of single parents residing in Osun State, who spoke to OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday, lamented the hardship, stressing that the rising cost of living is a huge bane to their survival.

Mrs. Amina Ibrahim, a single mother of three in the Akeju area of Osogbo, while sharing her experience, said: “Every day is a struggle to put food on the table and ensure my children have access to education.

“The cost of living keeps rising, but my income remains stagnant. It’s incredibly challenging to provide for my family on my own.”

Similarly, Mr. Olatunji Ibrahim, a single father residing in Ede, stated, “Finding stable employment has been a major challenge since my wife passed away two years ago. I work as a security guard, but the income is barely enough to cover our basic needs.

“Access to essential services such as healthcare and education is a concern for me as a single parent. Rising medical costs and school fees often strain already tight budgets, leaving many families without adequate healthcare or educational opportunities for our children.”

Mrs. Bisi Adekunle, a single mother who sells fabrics in Ila, spoke on the emotional challenge of single parenting, explaining that “It is lonely and overwhelming at times. 

“I miss having someone to share the responsibilities with. I worry about providing a stable and nurturing environment for my children while dealing with financial stress. Even, while I struggle to get all of these things, having someone to converse with and discuss life and my plans with is something I have not felt in a while. I feel so lonely.”

Some of those who spoke to OSUN DEFENDER advocated community-based support and government intervention for the burden faced by single parent households. 

They added that initiatives around the provision of financial assistance, job training and access to affordable housing and healthcare can also make a significant difference in improving the lives of single parents and their children.