Group calls for greater attention to young children

A civil society organisation, Boys Without Borders Nigeria, has said the continued neglect of children is a worrying issue that needs to be addressed, noting that the situation poses a long-term threat to the development of the nation.

According to the co-founder and CEO of the organisation, Solomon Idowu, there is a need to close the gap created by the abandonment of children over the years.

He said this while speaking at the Ibadan Children’s Conference, an event organized by the non-profit organization as part of the series of activities to commemorate the International Children’s Day, on Friday.

The theme of the event is: “Feeding the child in a changing world”, which is also the theme of International Children’s Day 2024.

“International Children’s Day is an excellent opportunity to show the importance of the need to pay special attention to the problems faced by children in today’s society,” he said.

Idowu stated that society has neglected the child for too long.

He added: “It is of utmost necessity that we do everything possible for the children of today to close this gap, as the boys they neglect today will become the men they complain about tomorrow.

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“We have neglected children and their development, often leaving them alone. The result of this is already evident: children have started to fall behind.”

Gender inclusion

Also weighing in was Idowu’s partner, John Okafor, who said the emotional and mental well-being of young children cannot be overlooked, especially in gender-related debates.

He said the child experiences unique challenges and vulnerabilities that require the attention and support of society.

Okafor also noted that to foster inclusion in society, these challenges must be addressed.

“The child, often overlooked in the midst of gender-related debates, faces unique challenges and vulnerabilities that demand our attention and support. “His struggles with emotional expression and social expectations are real and valid,” he said.

“By recognizing and addressing child endangerment, we can work to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and reach their full potential.”

Children without borders

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Boys without Borders Nigeria is an advocacy group based in Ibadan, capital of Oyo State. The organization was founded in 2020 by John Okafor and Solomon Idowu with the mindset of promoting the education and well-being of children in Oyo State and the country at large.

Since its inception, Boys Without Borders has organized several specific campaigns and initiatives, such as the #Letterstotheboychild campaign.

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The organization also started a “Boys II Men” campaign, designed as a form of communication between boys and men that provides information to young men through real-life experiences.

It also has an annual male sexual abuse awareness campaign tagged: “Project Boys Talk About It.”