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In my six years of child advocacy and gender activism, I discovered there have been reports of rapid increase in drug abuse, cultism, rape, sexual abuse and teenage pregnancy. Despite numerous campaigns, protests, sensitizations and the domestication of VAPP Law, the trend has continued to raise its ugly head.
Our society focuses more on the girl child due to her vulnerability, leaving the boy to grow by himself. We seem to forget that a young misguided boy/teenager will likely end up criminal and violent. If a boy child is neglected or fed a diet of hate and violence, it is obvious that he will develop into a teenager/adult who is misguided and confused.
*We can’t solve a general problem by being one sided*
As we celebrate the boys today, I am using this auspicious moment to call on parents, NGOs, NBOs, Religious Organizations and the society at large to not only focus on the girl child. There’s an urgent need to pay equal attention to the boy child and his needs too.
We must all rise to show him some love and affection, and give him adequate mentorship and protection.
Happy International Boy-Child’s Day to all boys out there. And I like to extend same to men who were once boys too. I urge you all to keep making waves. You’re loved!
LeahAkinfiresoye
DoltmaPearlsFoundation
InternationalBoyChildDay2023
Peoplesmind
