Nigeria Police Force Celebrates International Day Of The Boy Child As IGP Disu Advocates For Boy’s Mental Health Development

Nigeria Police Force Celebrates International Day Of The Boy Child As IGP Disu Advocates For Boy’s Mental Health Development

In commemoration of the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child, the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, hosted students of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School, Abuja, at the Force Headquarters. The event highlighted a collective commitment to nurturing, protecting, and investing in the development of the boy child.

Themed “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” the event served as a call to action for parents, educators, and leaders to dismantle harmful stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing emotions or seeking psychological support.

Speaking at the occasion, the Head of the Force Education Unit, DCP Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, psc, emphasized the emotional burden many boys bear due to societal expectations that compel them to “man up” and suppress their vulnerabilities. He noted that society often conditions boys to believe that speaking about fear, pain, or emotional struggles is a sign of weakness. According to him, breaking the silence begins with creating safe spaces where boys can express themselves freely without shame or fear of judgment, while teaching them that true courage lies in the ability to communicate emotions honestly.

In line with this vision, the Force Education Unit disclosed that counselling units staffed with qualified professionals have been established across police schools nationwide to address learners’ emotional and psychological challenges.

Addressing the students, the Inspector-General of Police balanced his role as the nation’s top law enforcement officer with that of a caring parent and mentor. He urged the boys to redefine traditional notions of masculinity, stressing that true strength is not in hiding emotions, but in having the courage to seek help when necessary. He reminded them that “a problem shared is a problem half-solved,” emphasizing that mental health is just as important as physical health.

The IGP further noted that the future of the nation depends largely on the values instilled in the boy child today, adding that a disciplined and compassionate boy grows into a trustworthy leader, responsible father, and dedicated police officer tomorrow.

IGP Disu commended the sacrifices of educators and parents, while also advising the students to avoid peer pressure, cyberbullying, cultism, substance abuse, and negative social media influence.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment not only to combating crime, but also to fostering emotionally healthy, respectful, and confident young people who will grow into agents of peace, innovation, and positive change in society.