IGP Disu Advocates Mental Health Support for Boys at International Day of the Boy Child Celebration
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for greater attention to the mental and emotional wellbeing of boys, urging society to break harmful stereotypes that discourage them from expressing emotions or seeking help.
The IGP made the call as the Nigeria Police Force commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child by hosting students of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) School, Abuja, at the Force Headquarters.
The event, themed “Flourish and Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities” and “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health,” focused on promoting healthy emotional development among boys and encouraging supportive environments for their growth.
This was contained in a press release issued by the Nigeria Police Force and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, on May 26, 2026.
Speaking during the event, the Head of the Force Education Unit, Ibidapo Oludare Olubiyi, highlighted the emotional challenges many boys face due to societal expectations.
He said many boys are often pressured to “man up” and suppress their fears, pains, and emotional struggles.
“Society often conditions boys to believe that speaking about fear, pain, or emotional struggles is a sign of weakness,” Olubiyi stated.
According to him, creating safe spaces where boys can freely express themselves without shame or fear is essential in addressing mental health challenges among young males.
“Breaking the silence begins with creating safe spaces where boys can express themselves freely without shame or fear of judgment, while teaching them that true courage lies in the ability to communicate emotions honestly,” he added.
The Force Education Unit also disclosed that counselling units staffed with qualified professionals have been established across police schools nationwide to provide emotional and psychological support for students.
Addressing the students, IGP Disu urged boys to redefine the concept of masculinity, stressing that seeking help during difficult moments should not be seen as weakness.
“True strength is not in hiding emotions, but in having the courage to seek help when necessary,” the IGP said, adding that “a problem shared is a problem half-solved.”
He emphasized that mental health is as important as physical health and noted that the nation’s future depends largely on the values instilled in boys today.
“A disciplined and compassionate boy grows into a trustworthy leader, responsible father, and dedicated police officer tomorrow,” he stated.
The police boss also commended parents and educators for their sacrifices while cautioning students against peer pressure, cultism, cyberbullying, substance abuse, and negative social media influence.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to not only combating crime but also promoting the development of emotionally healthy and responsible young people capable of driving peace and positive change in society.
