The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child with a strong call for increased attention to boys’ mental health, emotional well-being, and moral development.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, noting that the event was held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The programme, which featured students of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School, focused on the need to create a supportive environment where boys can thrive emotionally and socially.
With the themes, “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” the event emphasized the importance of dismantling harmful stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing emotions or seeking psychological help.
Speaking during the occasion, the Head of the Force Education Unit, Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, said many boys suffer emotional burdens because society often pressures them to suppress their feelings and vulnerabilities.
According to him, boys are frequently conditioned to believe that discussing fear, pain, or emotional struggles is a sign of weakness, stressing that true courage lies in the ability to openly communicate emotions and seek support when necessary.
He disclosed that the Force Education Unit has established counselling units staffed by qualified professionals across police schools nationwide to help learners address emotional and psychological challenges.
Addressing the students, IGP Disu urged boys to redefine traditional ideas of masculinity, noting that strength should not be measured by emotional silence but by the courage to ask for help when needed.
“A problem shared is a problem half-solved,” the police chief told the students, while emphasizing that mental health deserves the same level of attention as physical health.
The IGP further stated that the future of the nation depends largely on the values instilled in young boys today, adding that disciplined, compassionate, and responsible boys would grow into trustworthy leaders, responsible fathers, and dedicated public servants.
He also advised the students to avoid peer pressure, cultism, cyberbullying, substance abuse, and negative social media influences.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to not only fighting crime but also promoting the growth of emotionally healthy, respectful, and confident young people capable of driving peace and positive change in society.
