The boy-child in Nigeria has been urged to break the culture of silence, resist negative peer pressure and remain focused in order to build a successful future.
The call was made during the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child celebration held in Ibadan and organised by a non-governmental organisation, Kids Advocate and Development Initiative.
Speaking at the summit, a Principal Officer with the Oyo State Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, Dr. Olatunji Oladunni, encouraged boys to always speak out whenever they face challenges instead of suffering in silence.
Dr. Oladunni also advised them to acquire vocational skills alongside formal education to enhance their future career prospects.
The founder of the initiative, Mrs. Yetunde Owokoniran, said the organisation was established to promote the welfare and development of the boy-child.
She warned that neglecting the proper upbringing of boys could pose serious dangers to the girl-child and the society in the future, urging parents to give equal attention and care to both sons and daughters in order to build a balanced society.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the initiative, Mr. Temitope Owokoniran, said the programme was designed to steer young boys away from hooliganism and other social vices.
According to him, the organisation remains committed to raising responsible boys who would become worthy ambassadors of their communities and the nation.
The event attracted students from various public and private schools across Oyo State.
Two participants, Iyanda Sulaimon and Kamarudeen Abdulhai, described the summit as enlightening, noting that it had broadened their understanding of how to plan and secure their future.
The celebration featured talent displays by students and ended with the presentation of certificates to participants.
