Katherine Abayomi.
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rivers State Chapter, has called for a balanced approach to child development, emphasising the need to nurture the boy child with the same dedication given to the girl child.
This call was made in commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Boy Child, which has the theme “Boosting optimism: Restoring Self-Worth.”
While global efforts to empower the girl child have yielded significant progress, NAWOJ Rivers State highlights the societal risks of neglecting the boy child’s emotional, psychological, and moral development.
The association stresses that raising boys with the right values is critical to preventing domestic violence, toxic masculinity, and fractured family structures in the future.
Chairperson, NAWOJ Rivers State Chapter, Susan Serekara-Nwikhana, in her remarks, stated that
“The same attention given to the girl child should as well be given to the boy child, so that when they grow they become better husbands in the society, rather than being violence and wife battering.”
She added: The increasing cases of gender- based violence and broken marriages stem partly from the neglect of boys during their formative years. We must teach boys emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and mutual respect to foster healthier relationships.”She retorted.
NAWOJ Rivers State urges Parents and Guardians to foster positive masculinity by teaching boys empathy, accountability, and respect for women.
Educational Institutions should integrate gender-sensitive education, mental health awareness, and life skills into school curricula.
Governments and NGOs should develop policies and programs, including mentorship initiatives, that address the unique challenges faced by boys.
Media and Society to Promote narratives that redefine masculinity, showcasing men as partners in progress rather than aggressors.
NAWOJ Rivers State reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the holistic development of all children, boys and girls alike to ensure a balanced and progressive society.
