The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to the emotional and moral development of young boys as it commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child with a special event held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The statement, issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the programme was hosted under the leadership of Olatunji Rilwan Disu and featured students of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School.
The event focused on promoting healthy emotional growth, discipline, and responsible leadership among boys.
This year’s celebration carried the themes, “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” with participants calling for greater attention to the emotional wellbeing of boys and the need to challenge harmful social expectations.
Speaking during the event, the Head of the Force Education Unit, DCP Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, said many boys grow up under pressure to suppress emotions because society wrongly equates vulnerability with weakness.
He stressed the importance of creating safe and supportive environments where boys can openly discuss fear, pain, and emotional struggles without being judged.
According to him, helping boys communicate their feelings honestly is a critical step toward building healthier families and communities.
Olubiyi also disclosed that counselling units staffed by trained professionals have been established across police schools nationwide to assist learners facing emotional and psychological challenges.
Addressing the students, the Inspector-General of Police urged boys to embrace a healthier understanding of masculinity, noting that true strength lies in seeking help when necessary rather than hiding emotions.
He reminded the students that “a problem shared is a problem half-solved,” while emphasizing that mental wellbeing deserves the same level of attention as physical health.
The police chief further stated that the nation’s future depends greatly on the values and character built in boys today, adding that disciplined and compassionate young boys are more likely to become responsible fathers, dependable leaders, and dedicated officers in the future.
Disu also commended parents and teachers for their sacrifices in shaping young minds and advised the students to stay away from peer pressure, cyberbullying, cultism, substance abuse, and harmful social media influence.
The Force said it remains committed not only to crime prevention but also to raising emotionally balanced and responsible young people capable of contributing positively to society.