Nigeria Police Celebrate Boy Child Day, Urge Support for Boys’ Emotional Wellbeing
The Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child with a strong call for improved mental health support and emotional development for boys across the country.
The event, held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, featured students from the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School, Abuja.
Speaking during the programme themed “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” police authorities stressed the need to end harmful stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing emotions or seeking psychological help.
The Head of the Force Education Unit, DCP Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, said many boys suffer emotional pressure due to societal expectations that compel them to suppress fear, pain, and emotional struggles.
According to him, society often teaches boys to “man up,” creating an unhealthy culture where expressing vulnerability is wrongly seen as weakness.
He emphasized the importance of creating safe environments where boys can freely express themselves without fear of ridicule or judgment, adding that true courage lies in honest emotional communication.
Olubiyi also disclosed that counselling units staffed with qualified professionals have been established in police schools nationwide to support learners facing emotional and psychological challenges.
Addressing the students, IGP Disu urged boys to redefine traditional notions of masculinity, stressing that real strength comes from seeking help when necessary rather than hiding emotions.
The police chief reminded the students that “a problem shared is a problem half-solved,” noting that mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health.
He further stated that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the values instilled in boys today, adding that disciplined and compassionate boys would grow into responsible fathers, trustworthy leaders, and dedicated police officers.
IGP Disu also commended parents and teachers for their sacrifices in raising and mentoring young boys, while advising the students to avoid peer pressure, cultism, cyberbullying, substance abuse, and negative social media influence.
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 who can contribute positively to society.
The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, on Tuesday in Abuja.
