By Mercy Gadia
The Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday celebrated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child, with the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, calling for increased support for boys’ mental health and emotional development.
The event, held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, featured students from the Police Officers’ Wives Association School and underscored the need to nurture and protect the boy child.
With the theme, “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” stakeholders called for deliberate efforts to address societal norms that discourage boys from expressing emotions.
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Speaking at the event, the Head of the Force Education Unit, DCP Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, said many boys are burdened by expectations that compel them to suppress their feelings.
He said, “Society often conditions boys to believe that speaking about fear, pain, or emotional struggles is a sign of weakness. Breaking the silence begins with creating safe spaces where boys can express themselves freely without shame or fear of judgment.”
Olubiyi added that counselling units staffed with professionals had been established across police schools nationwide to support students’ emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Addressing the students, the IGP urged them to redefine masculinity and embrace openness.
He said, “True strength is not in hiding emotions, but in having the courage to seek help when necessary. A problem shared is a problem half-solved.”
Disu stressed that mental health was as important as physical health, noting that the future of the country depends on the values instilled in young boys.
“A disciplined and compassionate boy grows into a trustworthy leader, responsible father, and dedicated police officer,” he said.
The police boss also cautioned the students against peer pressure, cyberbullying, cultism, substance abuse, and negative social media influence.
He commended parents and educators for their roles in shaping the lives of children, while reaffirming the commitment of the Force to youth development.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed not only to combating crime but also to fostering emotionally healthy, respectful, and confident young people,” he added.