Amid growing concerns over drug abuse, mental health struggles, and rising social pressure among young Nigerians, stakeholders have called for stronger mentorship systems and emotional support structures for boys. They warned that neglect of the male child could deepen social problems across the country.
The call was made at the weekend during an event marking the International Day of the Boy-Child, organized by Engraced Lifestyle Foundation at Apostolic Church Grammar School, Ketu, Lagos. Over 300 secondary school boys participated in mentorship sessions, discussions on drug abuse, and recreational activities.
Peter Obi Warns on Boy-Child Neglect
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi issued a stark warning over what he described as the growing neglect of the boy-child in Nigeria, linking it to rising insecurity, hunger, and collapsing access to education and healthcare. In a message on his X handle, Obi said the International Day of the Boy-Child should trigger urgent national reflection, stressing that the country is failing its children at a critical time.
Speakers Highlight Lack of Guidance
Speakers at the event noted that while public campaigns have increasingly focused on the girl-child over the years, many boys are growing up without guidance, emotional support, or positive role models. This leaves them vulnerable to substance abuse, truancy, and destructive social influences.
Uzoma Udoma, a QHSC consultant and youth mentor, said many young Nigerians are being shaped more by online culture and social media trends than by mentorship or value-based guidance. According to him, widespread exposure to drugs, pornography, and celebrity lifestyles on digital platforms has contributed to a growing "mindset crisis" among young people.
Creating Safe Spaces for Boys
Founder of the Foundation, Grace Oyemade, said the initiative was designed to create safe spaces where boys could openly discuss issues affecting them, including peer pressure, emotional struggles, and substance abuse. She noted that societal expectations often push boys into silence, forcing them to suppress emotions and navigate challenges alone.
The Vice Principal of Apostolic Church Grammar School, Tope Olarenwaju, linked increasing drug abuse among youths to the growing desire for quick wealth and social validation. She said many students now prioritize instant success over education and discipline, adding that mentorship programs could help reshape their thinking.
Lead volunteer at the Foundation, Busola Farawe, said the emotional well-being of boys remains largely ignored because of cultural expectations that men must always appear strong.
Obi Calls for Action
Obi warned that without deliberate action to secure children's lives and futures, the nation risks producing a generation deprived of education, values, and opportunity. He insisted that the boy-child must be properly educated, skilled, and mentored to become a productive member of society, rather than being left to struggle in an increasingly harsh environment.
