Founder and Executive Director of Boys Aid Network, Adeola Adigun, tells DARE AKOGUN why Nigeria must pay greater attention to the boy child, the organisation’s anti-crime initiatives, and the impact of the International Boys’ Day ConferenceWhatinformed the establishment of Boys Aid Network and its focus on the boy child?My passion for boy-child advocacy began during my National Youth Service Corps in a small town in Edo State. I saw many boys growing up without guidance, purpose, or support, and I could also see the consequences in the rising cases of crime, violence, and other social challenges.It made me realise that many of the problems we complain about in men often begin in boyhood. While girls have rightly received more intentional support over the years, many boys have simply been expected to figure life out on their own.I believe we cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we neglect boys. That conviction led me to establish Boys Aid Network (formerly known as Boy-King International) in 2020, with a vision to ensure that boys receive the mentorship, care, and opportunities they need to live wholesome lives and become responsible men who contribute positively to their families and society.How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Whatinformed the establishment of Boys Aid Network and its focus on the boy child?My passion for boy-child advocacy began during my National Youth Service Corps in a small town in Edo State. I saw many boys growing up without guidance, purpose, or support, and I could also see the consequences in the rising cases of crime, violence, and other social challenges.It made me realise that many of the problems we complain about in men often begin in boyhood. While girls have rightly received more intentional support over the years, many boys have simply been expected to figure life out on their own.I believe we cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we neglect boys. That conviction led me to establish Boys Aid Network (formerly known as Boy-King International) in 2020, with a vision to ensure that boys receive the mentorship, care, and opportunities they need to live wholesome lives and become responsible men who contribute positively to their families and society.How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. My passion for boy-child advocacy began during my National Youth Service Corps in a small town in Edo State. I saw many boys growing up without guidance, purpose, or support, and I could also see the consequences in the rising cases of crime, violence, and other social challenges.It made me realise that many of the problems we complain about in men often begin in boyhood. While girls have rightly received more intentional support over the years, many boys have simply been expected to figure life out on their own.I believe we cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we neglect boys. That conviction led me to establish Boys Aid Network (formerly known as Boy-King International) in 2020, with a vision to ensure that boys receive the mentorship, care, and opportunities they need to live wholesome lives and become responsible men who contribute positively to their families and society.How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. It made me realise that many of the problems we complain about in men often begin in boyhood. While girls have rightly received more intentional support over the years, many boys have simply been expected to figure life out on their own.I believe we cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we neglect boys. That conviction led me to establish Boys Aid Network (formerly known as Boy-King International) in 2020, with a vision to ensure that boys receive the mentorship, care, and opportunities they need to live wholesome lives and become responsible men who contribute positively to their families and society.How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. I believe we cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we neglect boys. That conviction led me to establish Boys Aid Network (formerly known as Boy-King International) in 2020, with a vision to ensure that boys receive the mentorship, care, and opportunities they need to live wholesome lives and become responsible men who contribute positively to their families and society.How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. How has societal bias towards girl-child advocacy affected support for boys’ development?Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Well, I wouldn’t say girl-child advocacy has negatively affected boys’ development. Girls need attention, and many people rightly advocate for them. The challenge is that boys have largely been assumed to be fine simply because they are male. Society often expects boys to figure life out on their own, but that isn’t the way it should be.Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Boys also need guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. I believe the success of girl-child advocacy actually shows us what intentional investment can achieve.We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We don’t have to choose between boys and girls. There is enough room to support both because healthy boys and healthy girls build stronger families and communities.How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. How has the International Boys’ Day Conference shaped conversations on boy-child development since its inception?The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. The International Boys’ Day Conference has created a platform where boys, parents, educators, organisations, and government representatives can have meaningful conversations about boys’ development. More importantly, the boys themselves are part of those conversations. They meet positive role models who share real-life experiences and inspire them to believe in their future.Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Since our maiden edition, we’ve partnered with organisations and the Oyo State Ministry of Education, gained media attention, and expanded conversations around policies and programmes that support boys. It’s helping to move boy-child development from the margins into mainstream discussions.Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Which intervention by the organisation do you consider most transformational for boys so far?Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Two interventions stand out for me. First is the International Boys’ Day Conference, which gives boys direct access to mentors whose life stories inspire hope and resilience.Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Many boys leave believing that their background does not determine their future. The second is our Boys Against Crime Campaign, through which we educate boys about crime prevention, responsible citizenship, and the consequences of criminal behaviour.We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We’ve taken this campaign to schools, and we’re also launching Boys Against Crime Clubs to empower students to become positive influencers and ambassadors against crime in their communities.What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What measurable impact has Boys Aid Network recorded in Ibadan and beyond?We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We’ve reached over 600 boys through the International Boys’ Day Conference and over 3,000 students through our Boys Against Crime school outreaches across Ibadan. Online, the campaign has reached more than 20,000 people.We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We’ve also organised webinars for parents to help them better understand the unique developmental needs of boys, particularly in relation to education and emotional well-being.Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Beyond the numbers, we’re seeing growing partnerships with government, schools, and other organisations, showing that more people are recognising the importance of intentional investment in boys’ development.What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What are the biggest funding and institutional challenges facing boy-child-focused NGOs?One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. One major challenge is that boy-child advocacy is still relatively new, so we’re still creating awareness about why boys also need intentional support. Many funding opportunities around gender equality understandably focus on women and girls, leaving very few dedicated opportunities for boys.Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Institutionally, we also need stronger recognition. For example, many states have Ministries of Women Affairs, but there are rarely dedicated structures addressing boys’ development.I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. I believe governments should create departments or frameworks that intentionally focus on boys’ well-being so organisations like ours can work within stronger systems to create lasting impact.What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What resistance has Boys Aid Network faced from communities, schools, or policymakers?The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. The biggest issue has been helping people understand that boys need support, too. Because of long-held societal beliefs, many assume boys will naturally figure life out on their own. We often have to present evidence, share statistics, and explain the realities boys face before people see the need.Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Thankfully, that is changing. Many schools now invite us because they’ve recognised the challenges affecting their boys. We’ve also built encouraging partnerships with the government, and we’re optimistic that, as awareness grows, we’ll see stronger policies and greater institutional support for boy-child development.Related NewsLekki’s ‘area boys’: Sanwo-Olu must act now!Security can’t be achieved with force alone — IGWeigh babies during immunisation visits to monitor growth, paediatricians tell parentsWhat is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What is the long-term vision of Boys Aid Network for Nigerian boys in the next decade?Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Our vision is to build a future where every Nigerian boy can easily access the support he needs to thrive. We hope to establish branches across Nigeria and eventually across Africa, creating a strong mentorship network that follows boys beyond secondary school into adulthood.We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We also plan to establish a dedicated hub for vulnerable boys, especially those on the streets or from difficult backgrounds, where they can access education, counselling, mentorship, and vocational skills.We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We know these boys often need a different approach, so we’re looking at successful models from countries like the UK and China. Ultimately, we want to use support as a tool for crime prevention, equip boys with lifelong skills, and raise young men who will go on to mentor others.How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. How does Boys Aid Network intend to scale mentorship for boys in rural communities?We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We believe the greatest assets in rural communities are the people who already live there. Every community has respected leaders, teachers, faith leaders, and other individuals who can become mentors when they are properly equipped.Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Our role is to train and support them using our mentorship model while working alongside them. We don’t believe in imposing one solution everywhere. The people within each community understand their realities best, so we want to build local capacity and develop mentorship programmes that respond to the specific needs of boys in those communities.Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Should Boys Aid Network’s model be replicated across all 36 states and the FCT?Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Yes, I believe it should, but not as a one-size-fits-all model. The realities of boys in northern Nigeria may differ from those in the South. So, every programme should be adapted to the needs of each community. What should remain constant is the commitment to reaching boys directly.At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. At Boys Aid Network, we don’t just hold conversations with policymakers; we go where the boys are. We also work with local volunteers and trusted community members so the impact continues long after we’ve left.What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What gaps in national youth policy does the organisation aim to fill?One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. One of the biggest gaps is the absence of a deliberate focus on boys’ development. We have policies that address youth broadly, but very little attention is given to the unique challenges boys face, such as school dropout, poor educational outcomes, exposure to crime, lack of mentorship, and limited access to emotional support.We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We believe youth policy should recognise these realities and provide targeted interventions that help boys thrive before problems become crises. Investing in boys is not about taking attention away from girls; it is about ensuring that no child is left behind.What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What is your charge to parents on raising emotionally intelligent boys in today’s Nigeria?My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. My message to parents is simple: allow boys to be human. Let them express their emotions without making them feel weak or ashamed. Too often, we tell little boys to “be a man” before we’ve allowed them to simply be children. As they grow, many learn to suppress fear, sadness, and disappointment instead of processing those emotions in healthy ways.Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Over time, that suppression can become anger, violence, depression, or even suicide. We must raise boys who know that strength includes asking for help, expressing emotions appropriately, and treating others with empathy and respect.What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What framework should organisations and corporate bodies adopt to invest in boys for stronger families and communities?I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. I believe organisations should move beyond one-off events and adopt a long-term, prevention-focused approach. That means investing in mentorship, education, life skills, mental health, digital skills, and leadership development for boys.Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. Corporate organisations can partner with schools, communities, and organisations like ours to create sustainable programmes that follow boys as they grow. When we invest early in boys, we’re not only shaping better individuals; we’re strengthening families, reducing crime, and building healthier communities for everyone.What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What urgent steps must state governments take to address the absence of positive male role models?We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We must first recognise that many men are struggling too. Unemployment, poor mental health, substance abuse, and economic hardship all affect a man’s ability to mentor the next generation. If we want more positive male role models, we have to intentionally support men too.I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. I would like to see governments develop dedicated frameworks or even departments that address men’s well-being while partnering with schools, communities, and organisations to expand mentorship. When men are supported, they are better equipped to lead their families and positively influence young boys.What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. What should the Federal Government do differently to mainstream boy-child development in the national youth policy?I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. I think the Federal Government needs to start by rethinking how we see boys. We cannot keep expecting better outcomes from men if we pay little attention to boys.The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. The national youth policy should recognise that boys have unique developmental needs and intentionally support them through mentorship, education, emotional well-being, skills development, and early crime prevention.We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria. We also need more research to understand the realities boys face so that our policies are evidence-based. When we invest in boys early, we are not just supporting them; we’re shaping the kind of men who will build stronger families, safer communities, and a better Nigeria.