International Boy Child Day: Princess Joy Idam Raises Alarm Over Neglect of Boys
As conversations around child development continue to focus largely on the girl child, media advocate and publisher, Princess Joy Idam, has called for urgent and balanced attention to the welfare, protection and emotional well-being of boys in society.
Marking the 2026 International Boy Child Day, observed annually on May 16, Princess Joy Idam said the future stability of society depends heavily on raising responsible, emotionally healthy and educated boys.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Building Positive Futures for Boys: Nurture, Educate, Protect,” she warned that many boys are increasingly exposed to violence, substance abuse, bullying and harmful societal pressures that discourage emotional expression.
According to her, empowering the boy child should not be seen as a rivalry against the girl child agenda, but a necessary step towards building a more balanced and progressive society.
“A boy who is properly nurtured, educated and protected will grow into a responsible man capable of contributing positively to society, respecting women and upholding justice,” she stated.
Princess Joy Idam also urged governments, parents and traditional institutions to strengthen policies and programmes that support boys’ mental health, education and protection, especially in vulnerable communities.
She further announced plans for a special programme on May 27, 2026, to celebrate and promote the development of the boy child.
The media advocate reaffirmed her commitment to using media platforms to amplify issues affecting children and promote policies that encourage holistic child development regardless of gender.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp:whatsapp.com