The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has called for stronger collective efforts toward the nurturing, protection, and overall development of the boy child, stressing the need to prioritise their mental and emotional well-being.
He made the appeal on Tuesday during an event organised to mark the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child, where students of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School, Abuja, were hosted.
This year’s observance was anchored on the themes “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” both of which highlighted the importance of dismantling long-standing stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing emotions or seeking psychological help.
Speaking at the event, the Head of the Force Education Unit, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, noted that many boys grow up under pressure to conform to rigid expectations of masculinity, where emotional expression is often seen as weakness.
He explained that such conditioning makes it difficult for boys to openly discuss fear, pain, or mental struggles, adding that true strength should be redefined as the ability to seek help and communicate feelings without shame.
Olubiyi further stressed the need to create safe and supportive environments where boys can express themselves freely, especially in schools and homes.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, the Force Education Unit also revealed that counselling centres staffed with trained professionals have been established in police schools across the country to support students facing emotional and psychological challenges.
The statement added that the IGP addressed the students in a fatherly and mentoring capacity, urging them to challenge outdated beliefs about masculinity and embrace openness in matters relating to mental health.
He reminded them that sharing problems is a sign of wisdom rather than weakness, emphasizing that emotional health is as important as physical well-being.
Disu also noted that the character and values instilled in boys today would shape the nation’s future, describing disciplined and compassionate boys as tomorrow’s responsible fathers, leaders, and officers.
He commended parents and teachers for their efforts in raising the younger generation and advised students to stay away from peer pressure, cultism, substance abuse, cyberbullying, and harmful online influences.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment not only to maintaining security but also to raising emotionally stable, responsible, and confident young people who can contribute positively to society.