According to The Punch, Nollywood star Jim Iyke has sparked a heated debate with his recent remarks about single motherhood and the upbringing of male children. Speaking during a podcast interview, the actor argued that while single mothers often do their best, they cannot fully raise boys into “proper men” without the influence of a father figure.
According to Iyke, raising a boy into a man requires a balance of discipline, guidance, and role modeling that, in his view, only a father can provide. “A woman can raise a child, yes. But to raise a boy into a man, you need a man. A mother cannot teach a boy how to be a proper man. It’s not about love or sacrifice—it’s about experience and identity,” he said.
Iyke noted that many single mothers go through immense struggles to ensure their children succeed, but insisted that there are aspects of manhood that require the direct mentorship of a father. He stressed that young boys often seek role models, and without a father present, they may turn to external influences such as peers, celebrities, or even negative role models in society.
His statement has stirred strong reactions among Nigerians, especially on social media. Some critics have accused the actor of downplaying the resilience and success stories of single mothers who have raised exceptional men despite the odds. Others, however, agreed with his perspective, pointing out that boys need positive male figures in their lives to understand responsibility, leadership, and discipline.
Jim Iyke further explained that his view was not meant to insult single mothers but to highlight the importance of fatherhood. “It’s not about blaming women. Circumstances happen—divorce, death, abandonment. But we cannot deny that boys need fathers. Society must encourage men to step up, rather than leaving women to shoulder everything,” he added.
The actor, who is also a father, revealed that his own experiences shaped his perspective, stressing that he strives to be present in his children’s lives because he believes his role as a father cannot be replaced.
Iyke’s comments have reopened conversations about family dynamics in Nigeria, the growing number of single-parent households, and the importance of fatherly involvement in raising the next generation. While the debate continues, one thing remains clear—Jim Iyke’s words have touched a sensitive nerve in society.