By Victoria Attah, Correspondent
Concerns over the growing social pressures confronting young boys took centre stage on Saturday as publisher and media advocate, Princess Joy Idam, called for stronger national attention toward the emotional well-being, education and protection of the boy child.
Speaking in commemoration of the 2026 International Boy Child Day marked every May 16, Idam said many boys across the country are increasingly exposed to harmful influences without adequate support systems to guide their development.
She observed that conversations around child welfare in recent years have largely focused on the girl child, leaving many issues affecting boys insufficiently addressed despite rising cases of substance abuse, bullying, violence and emotional neglect among young males.
According to her, society must begin to pay closer attention to the challenges boys face both at home and within their communities to prevent long-term social consequences.
Idam noted that this year’s theme, “Building Positive Futures for Boys: Nurture, Educate, Protect,” reflects the urgent need for families, schools, religious bodies and policymakers to work together in shaping responsible and emotionally stable young men.
She maintained that raising responsible boys should not be viewed as an attempt to diminish advocacy for girls, but rather as part of broader efforts to build healthier families and safer communities.
The media advocate warned that societal expectations which pressure boys to suppress emotions and appear constantly “strong” often contribute to mental health struggles and behavioural problems later in life.
She therefore urged governments and relevant agencies to invest more in programmes that address mentorship, mental health support and educational opportunities for boys, especially those living in vulnerable environments.
Idam also advocated the promotion of positive masculinity rooted in discipline, empathy, accountability and respect for women and gender equality. She further called for decisive action against child labour, exploitation, cult recruitment and other forms of violence affecting boys in different parts of the country.
As part of activities marking the occasion, she disclosed plans for a special boy child-focused programme scheduled for May 27, 2026, aimed at encouraging mentorship and self-development among young boys.
She added that the media must continue to play an active role in drawing attention to issues affecting children and advocating policies that promote inclusive development for both boys and girls.
