…Group commemorates international day
In a bid to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by boys globally and promote their overall well-being, the Support for Girls, Boys and Women Initiative (SUGBWi) organized a commemorative event for the 2024 International Day of the Boy Child. Held in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State, the event highlighted the importance of supporting boys’ health and development, particularly in the face of emerging concerns such as the influence of toxic masculinity perpetuated by social media NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The event, which coincided with International Boy’s Day on May 16th, featured various activities aimed at engaging and empowering boys from Christian Diamond Primary School and Diamond Grammar College, Ikang in Bakassi. Among the activities were an art competition at the primary school section of Christian Diamond School, a football match, and informative talks on peace-building and child abuse prevention.
Hon. Grace Bassey, the Executive Director of SUGBWi, emphasized the significance of the International Day of the Boy Child in addressing the specific needs of boys and promoting their holistic well-being. Bassey stated, “The International Day of the Boy Child is observed on May 16th each year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the unique challenges boys face globally and promoting their well-being. The focus is on ensuring boys have the opportunities and support they need to thrive in all areas of life, including education, health, and emotional development.”
Mike Essien of Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P) highlighted the role boys can play in peace-building efforts, emphasizing the importance of fostering respectful and compassionate attitudes among boys. Essien remarked, “On International Day of the Boy Child, it’s important to recognize the role boys can play in peace building. Encouraging boys to be respectful, compassionate, and cooperative helps them grow into adults who contribute to a peaceful world.”
Glory Etokeren of Budget Transparency and Accountability Network (BTAN) addressed the issue of child abuse, stressing the need to protect boys from abuse and ensure their rights are upheld. Etokeren explained, “The International Day of the Boy Child, observed on May 16th, focuses on the challenges boys face worldwide, including child abuse. This day highlights the need to protect boys from abuse, promote their rights, and ensure they have the support needed to thrive.”
The event also received support from generous philanthropists including but not limited to, Navy Commander Patrick Odiong Rtd, Mr. Benjamin Ene, and Hon. Eyo Bassey representing the Bakassi State Constituency at the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly, Otu Otu Ita the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget, who sponsored various aspects of the program.
Items distributed to the students and pupils during the event include exercise books, pen, tea cups and cash prize.
Feelers suggest that the commemoration of the International Day of the Boy Child by development partners and the general public serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing the unique needs of boys and fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for their growth and development.
EDITORIAL: This report was updated on 18th May 2024.
