Abuja: The Boy Child Festival, a platform designed to tackle common stereotypes and social issues impacting male children, has kicked off in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The three-day event, themed ‘The Mask We Wear’, commenced on Tuesday at the Exhibition Pavilion in Garki.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the festival aims to bring together students, child rights advocates, educators, parents, and stakeholders from the creative sectors to discuss the survival struggles faced by the Nigerian male child, including issues like abuse, exploitation, and the pervasive ‘boys don’t cry’ syndrome. Joyce Nwakanma, the founder of The Boy Child’s Life-Changing the Narratives Foundation and organizer of the festival, stated that the initiative seeks to raise awareness about issues affecting the boy child, which have become a national concern.
Nwakanma highlighted that societal pressures on male children often lead to mental health challenges, diminished academic focus, and increased vulnerability to violence and crime. She emphasized that the theme of the festival reflects the hidden realities many boys endure daily across homes, schools, and society. ‘Many boys have been taught to wear masks of strength and silence, hiding depression, abuse, and emotional struggles for far too long,’ she noted.
She further added that the festival is creating a safe space where boys can be seen, heard, and valued, promoting conversations over condemnation and encouraging boys to speak up. This initiative is part of broader efforts by the foundation to restore hope, build confidence, and change the narrative surrounding the boy child.
Abubakar Yakubu, National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), commended the festival’s organizers, describing it as a timely intervention. He noted that boys are often taught that vulnerability is a weakness, leading to hidden feelings of fear and anxiety, ultimately affecting their mental health and confidence. He stressed the importance of guiding boys properly as they grow, given their future roles as fathers, husbands, and leaders.
Agility Onwurah, Chairman of the festival’s Organising Committee, remarked that the event provides an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate for the betterment of the boy child. He emphasized the need to equally train both boys and girls to ensure a better future for society.
NAN also reported that the event featured activities such as quiz competitions, counseling sessions, and spoken word presentations.