International Boy Child Day 2026: Princess Joy Idam Calls for Greater Attention to Welfare of the Boy Child

Publisher and media advocate, Princess Joy Idam, has called on parents, governments, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to place greater priority on the protection, education and emotional development of the boy child as part of efforts to build a balanced, peaceful and progressive society.

In a statement issued to commemorate the 2026 International Boy Child Day, observed annually on May 16, Princess Joy Idam said the welfare and proper upbringing of boys remain vital to national development, peaceful coexistence and the future stability of society.

She noted that this year’s theme, “Building Positive Futures for Boys: Nurture, Educate, Protect,” underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the growing social, emotional and economic challenges confronting young boys today.

Princess Joy Idam expressed concern over what she described as the increasing neglect of the boy child in discussions surrounding child rights, protection and social development.

According to her, while commendable progress has been made in advancing the girl-child agenda, boys also face serious challenges such as exposure to violence, peer pressure, substance abuse, lack of positive male role models and societal expectations that discourage emotional expression and vulnerability.

She stressed that empowering and protecting the boy child should not be seen as a competition with the girl-child cause, but rather as a necessary step toward inclusive and balanced nation-building.

“A boy who is properly nurtured, educated and protected will grow into a responsible man capable of contributing positively to society, respecting women and upholding justice and integrity,” she stated.

Princess Joy Idam further urged governments at all levels to strengthen policies and programmes that address the mental health, education and protection needs of boys, particularly those in vulnerable and underserved communities.

She also called for the promotion of positive masculinity through emotional intelligence, discipline, responsibility and respect for gender equality from an early age.

The media advocate emphasized the need to combat violence, exploitation, bullying, child labour and the recruitment of boys into criminal and violent activities, noting that many young boys are increasingly exposed to harmful influences without adequate guidance or support systems.

She equally advocated increased investment in mentorship initiatives, counseling programmes and safe spaces where boys can interact with positive role models, develop confidence and freely express themselves without fear of stigma.

As part of activities marking the 2026 International Boy Child Day, Princess Joy Idam announced plans for a special programme scheduled for May 27, 2026, aimed at celebrating, mentoring and empowering boys through education, advocacy and community engagement.

She reaffirmed her commitment to using the media as a platform to amplify issues affecting the boy child and to advocate policies and programmes that support the holistic development of every Nigerian child, regardless of gender.