Federal Government Pledges Support for Boy-Child Mentorship and Leadership Development…The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to providing mentorship and leadership support for the boy-child, highlighting the importance of nurturing young males to ensure their success and well-being.
This commitment was made by the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, during a press conference in Abuja on May 16, 2025, marking the celebration of the International Day of the Boy-Child.
Olawande’s statement emphasized the government’s resolve to create opportunities that would enable the boy-child to thrive through proper guidance and mentorship, aiming to equip them with the skills and resources needed to become successful individuals.
During his speech, Olawande stressed the importance of offering mentorship programs to all boys, irrespective of their economic or social backgrounds. He stated, “As a government, we are committed to creating platforms that promote mentorship and leadership development for the boy-child. Through initiatives like this, we can provide them with the support they need to succeed.” According to Olawande, the goal is to empower Nigerian boys by offering them the tools and opportunities to succeed in all aspects of life. He emphasized that these initiatives are essential in fostering the personal growth of boys while also addressing critical challenges that can hinder their development.
The theme for the 2025 International Day of the Boy-Child, “Boys’ Mental Health and Well-being,” was also addressed by Olawande. He pointed out that many young boys lack positive male role models in their lives, particularly within their families, which has a detrimental effect on their overall development. Olawande stressed the importance of mentorship in helping to fill this void and provide boys with the guidance they need. He explained that positive male figures can help boys build their self-confidence, make sound decisions, and form healthy relationships with adults. Without such role models, he added, many boys struggle to navigate their growth and become responsible members of society.
This government initiative to support the boy-child is part of a wider effort to tackle issues that young males face in Nigeria. One of the critical concerns highlighted is the growing number of juvenile crimes and the lack of strong guidance for young boys. To address this issue, non-governmental organizations such as the “Equip The Boy Child Project,” led by Dr. Patrick Uduma, have focused on mentoring boys between the ages of 9 and 20. The project aims to address the rising tide of juvenile crime and the absence of positive role models by offering mentorship and developing values and habits that foster responsible behavior. Dr. Uduma, who leads this project, emphasized that mentorship involves modeling and coaching younger individuals, helping them to understand the principles of leadership while providing a framework for guiding the next generation.
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The Federal Government’s focus on mentorship for boys also aligns with broader initiatives designed to engage and empower Nigerian youth. In 2024, the government, through Minister Olawande, reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Foundation to offer young Nigerians alternative ways to avoid negative behaviors. These collaborations aim to provide youths with constructive opportunities, especially in areas like agriculture, arts, and information and communication technology (ICT), to help them develop essential life skills.
Further efforts by the government include the launch of the Youth Activities Dashboard in December 2024, a platform that allows young Nigerians to track government activities, share suggestions, and engage in nation-building. Olawande emphasized that such platforms are designed to create meaningful engagement for young people, ensuring they have a voice in the country’s development. The minister called for a collective effort from all sectors to empower the youth, urging young Nigerians to take ownership of their future and contribute actively to their nation’s progress.
The commitment of the Federal Government to the mentorship and leadership development of the boy-child underscores the growing recognition of the unique challenges that young males face in Nigerian society. By offering tailored support to young boys, the government is working to ensure that they are equipped to face the challenges of the modern world. These initiatives are crucial in building a generation of responsible, self-confident, and productive individuals who will contribute positively to society.
Ultimately, the Federal Government’s efforts to invest in the future of Nigerian boys reflect a broader vision for the country’s development. Through mentorship and leadership programs, Nigeria is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. These initiatives not only focus on addressing the current challenges faced by the youth but also lay the groundwork for creating a society where every boy has the opportunity to reach his full potential.
